Gloria J. Hughes

Gloria was born on March 26, 1949, in Twin Falls, Idaho. Her early years were spent on a small working cattle ranch in the Hanson area, where she learned the value of hard work and the beauty of simplicity. It wasn’t an easy life, but it was a full one, with a garden to tend, animals to care for, and a family that she loved dearly. She fondly recalled the smell of her mother’s homemade bread and cinnamon rolls after school, and she often joked that by age six, she probably had high cholesterol thanks to the homemade butter and whipping cream made from whole milk. There was always something to pick from the garden, always something to savor, always something to nurture.

When Gloria was eight, her family moved to Grants Pass, Oregon, where the landscape was as wild and beautiful as the memories she created. She thrived in southern Oregon, and her years in junior high and high school became some of her most treasured memories. She graduated in 1967 and moved to Portland to pursue new opportunities, and in 1969, she became a mother to a daughter, Michelle.

Gloria often said that the moment she learned she gave birth to a little girl with red hair (Michelle), she knew her life was about to change forever—and how right she was. The joy of being a mother never left her. It remained a central part of who she was, and Michelle, along with Mark, were the loves of her life.

On October 31, 1987, after dating for seven years, Gloria married Mark, the love of her life. She often told a close friend, “I believe he’s a keeper.” Their bond was beautiful, a testament to their deep connection, and their years together only deepened that love over 38 years of marriage.

Her career in healthcare spanned over two decades, working for both large and smaller organizations in Portland. She dedicated herself to helping others, finding meaning and purpose in her work. After 22 successful years, she decided it was time to retire—and with that, came a new chapter of her life.

Although she had spent much of her life in Oregon, the grey skies and endless rain began to wear on her, and she and Mark made the bold decision to move to Arizona. There, the sun shone brighter, and the warmth of the community embraced them. Gloria often remarked on how fortunate they were to live on Stinson Drive, where neighbors became friends, and the beauty of the blue skies filled her heart with gratitude.

One of Gloria’s favorite things was sitting on the patio, coffee in hand in the mornings or a glass of wine in the evenings, gazing up at the clear skies. Those simple moments became some of her most cherished.

Gloria was a woman who never took anything for granted. She often said that we don't get to choose the final chapter of our lives, but she was deeply grateful for each and every person who entered her life. To her family, who supported her from near and far, you were her blessing, and to Mark, her devoted husband, and Michelle, her pride and joy—she was eternally thankful.

Gloria had many passions, from her love of elephants to her appreciation of the colors green and purple. She loved seafood, especially crab, and was known for her green thumb, having helped kept a begonia alive for over 60 years—that had been a gift to her mother from her brother Bruce. She took great pride in nurturing life, whether it was her plants or the people she loved.

Her soul radiated warmth and kindness. Her smile was captivating, her heart loving. Whether you knew her for years or only a short time, you felt her grace and beauty. She was the kind of person who made everyone feel seen, valued, and loved.

Others have shared that Gloria was a friend you don’t often find in life. Her pleasantness made her a joy to be around, and her lovely face, always smiling, made everyone feel at ease. She was someone who truly brought light into every room she entered.

Music was another source of joy for Gloria, and she had a soft spot for the 80s, with songs like "Money for Nothing" by Dire Straits bringing her a sense of fun and nostalgia. One of her favorite Christmas songs, “Mary’s Boy Child” by Boney James, will forever remind us of the beautiful woman who found joy in the simplest things.

Gloria's life was filled with love, laughter, and a grace that made everyone feel like they were her family. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, warmth, and joy.

Though we mourn her loss, we know that her spirit will live on in each of us. We carry with us her smile, her laughter, and the memories of the wonderful times we shared.

May we always remember Gloria for the beautiful soul she was.

In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity.