Marsha Lynn Mathis Hughes

Marsha Lynn Mathis Hughes, 74, was found in her residence on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 to have left this earth and peacefully entered into her eternal home in Heaven. 

Born on June 5, 1950, Marsha was a native of Avera and a proud graduate of Wrens High School in 1968. She furthered her education at Brewton Parker College, setting the foundation for a life dedicated to service and compassion.

Marsha's career began at Ft. Gordon after she moved to Augusta, where she started her family. Her journey eventually led her to California for a couple of years before returning to Avera, where she crafted a lasting impact through her work at Glit and as a medical receptionist for over two decades for Dr. James M. Ford with Medical Associates Plus in Wrens. Marsha's career was not just a job; it was a calling that perfectly matched her caring attitude and love for people. Known for her dedication, she built relationships with the patients, ensuring they received the comfort and attention they needed during their visits.

A woman of deep determination and independence, Marsha was incredibly caring and compassionate, traits that endeared her to many. She lovingly spoke her mind and often wore her heart on her sleeve, always trying to reflect the love of Christ in her daily life. A lifelong member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, her faith was paramount, especially after she rededicated her life in 1996. Marsha served her church with fidelity, sharing her love and kindness with everyone around her.

Marsha's hobbies were as vibrant as her personality. She spent most of her free time in her yard, nurturing her flower and vegetable gardens, an obsession that brought her immense joy. An avid sports fan, Marsha passionately supported the Atlanta Falcons and the Georgia Bulldogs, never missing a televised game. Her friends and family will fondly remember her for her remarkable grilled steaks, a testament to her love for cooking.

Marsha was preceded in death by her parents, Marviene Norton Mathis and William Louis Mathis. She is survived by her cherished children, Brooke Hughes Axon (James) and Brad Hughes, as well as her adored grandchildren, Drake Axon and Ava Grace Axon. She is also remembered by her brothers, Claude Mathis (Vianna) and Warren Mathis (Pamela), along with her nieces and nephews, Wes Mathis (Connie), Kim Prater (Page), Jason Mathis (Holly), and Ashley Brown (Michael). In addition to her immediate family, she leaves behind a loving extended family, a devoted church family, and many friends who were touched by her kindness. Honored to serve as pallbearers include Drake Axon, Michael Brown, Anthony Clark, Russell Clark, Jason Mathis and Victor Raley.

The family respectfully requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a charity near and dear to her heart, by visiting their website at stjude.org/donate where you can donate online or click on the “Donate by Mail” to send a check.  You can also donate by clicking St. Jude Children's Research Hospital below.

To celebrate her life, the family will greet friends at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church from 10:00 AM to 11:45 AM on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, followed by a graveside service from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM with Rev. Mark Bowers officiating.

A beloved member of the Avera community, Marsha Lynn Mathis Hughes' life was a beautiful testament to love, faith, and service, and her memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.