Mildred G. Hughes, 94, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026. Born on January 7, 1932, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, she was the beloved daughter of the late William Oliver Gillman and Matilda Frye Gillman.
After graduating from high school, Mildred married the love of her life, William Hughes. Together they shared 65 wonderful years of marriage and attended Johnson Bible College, beginning a lifetime devoted to faith and ministry. As a preacher’s wife, Mildred faithfully served alongside her husband, and together they dedicated more than 70 combined years to serving the church. Wherever they worshipped, she was an active member of the congregation, participating in singles ministries, working with youth groups, and directing the youth choir with joy and enthusiasm.
While Mildred’s greatest calling was caring for her family as a homemaker, she also worked as a nanny in Arlington for Ron and Kate Gurney and their son, Ben, who lovingly gave her the nickname “Mimi,” a name she cherished.
Seventeen years ago, Mildred moved to Virginia Beach to be closer to her growing family. She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome. Family and friends knew there was always room at her table, and weekends often found her preparing company stew for the inevitable visitors who stopped by. Her homemade cheese balls became legendary among those who knew her, and sharing food was one of the many ways she expressed her love.
In her later years, Mildred enjoyed simple pleasures, especially going out to eat with family. She treasured outings with her great grandson, Andrew, who, after earning his driver’s license, delighted in taking her to Brusters for cherry vanilla ice cream. Wednesdays were reserved for another favorite tradition, enjoying her complimentary slice of pie at The Village Inn with her friends.
More than anything, Mildred loved her family. She was happiest when surrounded by those she loved, creating a home filled with warmth, kindness, laughter, and unconditional love.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Hughes; her parents, William Oliver Gillman and Matilda Frye Gillman; and her brother, William O. Gillman.
She is lovingly remembered by her two children, Linda and her late husband Jack Ross and William “Billy” Hughes Jr.; granddaughters Wendy and her husband, Robert and Kelly and her husband, Roy Bower; great-grandchildren, Melina Inman, Andrew Adams, Logan Bower, and Dylan Bower, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, July 14 at Altmeyer Funeral Home 5033 Rouse Dr in Va Beach from 4-6pm. A graveside service will take place at Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk, Virginia, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband.
