Pauline "Polly" F. Hughes

Pauline “Polly” Hughes, of Farmington, Missouri, died on January 6, 2026, at Mercy Hospital South, with her loving son, Jeff, by her side. She was 88 years old.

She was born on August 15, 1937, in Pinery in Ste. Genevieve County, Missouri, to Vernon and Carrie (Howell) Thomure. Polly was a woman of deep faith whose life was devoted to God, her family, and the service of others.

She is survived by her sons, Mark Hughes (Crystal Walter) of California, Missouri, and Jeff Hughes of Fredericktown, Missouri; her grandchildren, Lauren Hughes, Hunter Hughes (Abigail), and Brian Foster (Christie); her great-granddaughter, Ella Mae Hughes; her siblings, Bill Thomure of Paragould, Arkansas, and Judy Stephens (Ron) of Jackson, Tennessee; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of 67 years, Billy Gene Hughes; and her son, Matthew Hughes.

Polly taught Sunday school for many years and was a devoted member of Cobalt Village Grace Community Church. Her passion for helping children with disabilities was inspired by her dedication to her son with spina bifida. She was instrumental in mainstreaming the education of handicapped children at Farmington High School and Mineral Area College and was deeply involved in advocating for disabled children both locally and abroad.

In Kenya, Africa, a children’s school for the handicapped was named in her honor—“Polly’s Place.” Polly also frequently opened her home to children in the community who needed love, care, and stability. Her world truly revolved around God and taking care of her family.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 noon at Cozean Memorial Chapel, officiated by Pastor David Parmley. Interment will follow at Knights of Pythias Cemetery in Park Hills.

Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to Cobalt Village Grace Community Church.

View the video tribute and share condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.