Cynthia “CJ” Alana Hughes (née Hursey), 44, of O’Fallon, Illinois, was born on January 7, 1982, in San Jose, California, and passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
Cynthia loved traveling with her husband and friends and believed life was meant to be experienced, not just observed. In the past year alone, she enjoyed a Caribbean cruise during the winter and a trip to Bali, Indonesia, last summer. At home, she loved cheering on the San Francisco 49ers, relaxing with gummy candy nearby, and spending time with the people she loved most.
More than anything else, Cynthia was genuinely kind. She chose kindness even when she didn’t have to, and she had a way of making people feel welcome, seen, and cared for. She will be remembered as a loving wife, devoted mother, loyal friend, and someone who always tried to help others however she could.
Cynthia was preceded in death by her father, Richard Hursey.
Left to cherish her memory are her mother, Terrie Hursey (née Walker); her beloved husband, Ryan “Dutch” Hughes; her son, Hudson Hughes; and her sister, Victoria “Vicky” Stephen.
In honor of Cynthia’s lifelong compassion and willingness to help others, memorial donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be extended to the family online at Schildknecht Funeral Home.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Schildknecht Funeral Home.
