Jewell Dean (Buck) Hughes

Jewell Dean (Buck) Hughes, age 95, a beloved educator and a cherished member of the community, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2023, in Sheridan, Arkansas.

Jewell Dean was born on July 21, 1928, in Alpine, Arkansas to Carrol Buck and Cornelius Thompkins Buck. From a young age, she exhibited a passion for education and went on to earn a Master's Degree in Education. She dedicated an astounding 33 years of her life as an esteemed educator at Sheridan School District. Her commitment to shaping young minds left an indelible impact on generations of students who were fortunate enough to be taught by her.

Beyond the classroom, Jewell Dean deeply enjoyed various hobbies and interests. She had an undeniable love for all types of puzzles and spending hours engaged in them. Texting her family brought her immense joy as it allowed her to stay connected even when physically apart. She found solace and creativity through latch hooking and embroidering. One of the traditions that she held close to her heart was sending birthday cards to everyone in her extensive family each year. Family reunions were also an event she looked forward to, cherishing the bonds she shared with her loved ones.

Jewell Dean's generosity knew no bounds; she possessed a loving spirit that radiated warmth to all those around her. The kindness she exuded left an everlasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to have encountered her. Her selflessness and compassion were evident in every aspect of her life.

Jewell Dean was preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband, Ray Hughes; son in law Mike Pumphrey, Grandson Scott Pumphrey, Daughter in law Donna Hughes;  sisters, Leonia Jackson, Louise Yancy, Evelyn Hill, Gwen Jackson, Velma Free; brothers, Jessie Buck, Lawrence Buck, Lester Buck, Dwain Buck, and Rayford Buck.

Jewell Dean is survived by her loving sons; Richard Hughes (Donna), Michael Hughes (Teri) and Donald Hughes (Vicky); daughter; Judy Pumphrey; grandchildren, Brian Hughes, Kathy Dutton, Denise Holiman, Mark Pumphrey, Michele Pumphrey, Traci Hughes, Chad Hughes, Deana Hughes, Scott Fisher; great-grandchildren, Jacob Hughes, James Hughes, Michael Hollinger, Roo Pumphrey, Briar Pumphrey, Brayden Hughes, Slade Hughes, Zach Dutton, Rhett Fisher, Laken Jackson;  great-great-grandchildren Maverick Hughes, Addison Fisher, Audrey Fisher and Colter Jackson; brothers, Wesley Buck and Eugene Buck; sister, Varie Lee Mitchell; and a multitude of nieces and nephews who were dear to her heart.

A visitation service will be held on October 4th, 2023, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Ruggles-Wilcox Funeral Home located at 517 Clay St, Arkadelphia, AR, 71923. This will be followed by a funeral service from 2:00 PM at the same location. The services will offer an opportunity for family and friends to come together to celebrate and honor Jewell Dean's remarkable life.

Arrangements are entrusted to Ruggles Wilcox Funeral Home, 517 Clay Street, Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71923.  www.ruggleswilcox.com