cleveland (cleve) hughes
1910-1998
Life Story
Cleveland “Cleve” Hughes was born around 1910 in Newton County, Mississippi, to John Hughes (1874–1966) and Arbella Arrington Hughes (1880–1959). He was raised in the Altare community, a rural farming area known for its close family ties and deep spiritual traditions. Growing up, Cleve learned the enduring values of faith, discipline, and perseverance — qualities that would guide him throughout his life. Like many children of his generation, he helped sustain the family’s livelihood through farm labor while attending school, where he completed the third grade of elementary education.
In 1930, Cleve married Lillie M. Scott, and the couple established their home in Newton County, where he worked as a farmer. From this union, one son was born:
- George Hughes (1929–1978)
By 1940, Cleve was residing with Flossie Dixon (1913–?), and later, in the early 1950s, he married Mary Wash (1917–?), with whom he shared many years of companionship and family life. The couple lived in Newton County, where they also cared for Mary’s elderly father. From this marriage, three children were born:
- Donald J. Hughes (1944–?)
- Mary J. Hughes (1946–?)
- Early Hughes (1948–?)
Faith and service were central to Cleve’s life. He was a devoted member of the Saint Cloud Missionary Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as a Deacon. His leadership and steadfast commitment to his church reflected the strong moral foundation instilled in him by his parents and the close-knit Altare community of his youth.
After a long and fulfilling life devoted to family, faith, and community, Cleveland Hughes passed away on February 8, 1998, at the age of 88. Funeral services were held at Saint Cloud Missionary Baptist Church, with Rev. Theron Evans officiating, and interment followed in the church graveyard.
He was survived by six children — Donald, Mary, Earlie, Bettie, and others — along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family members who cherished his wisdom, kindness, and quiet strength.
Cleveland “Cleve” Hughes is remembered as a man of humility, faith, and perseverance — a devoted servant of God whose life bridged generations within the Hughes family and the Saint Cloud community. His legacy endures through his descendants and the church he faithfully served for many years.
Resting Place
Saint Cloud Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1910 Federal Census
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- 1950 Federal Census
- The Newton Record, Mrs. Callie H. Willis Obituary, Wed, May 06, 1970 ·Page 2
- Scott County Times, Mr. Cleve Hughes Obituary, Wed, Feb 18, 1998 ·Page 6
- U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007
- U.S., World War II Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947
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