Emily Anne Hughes

Emily Anne Hughes, a vibrant spirit whose love touched many, was born on April 17, 1990, in Marion, Indiana. Tragically, the world lost this remarkable woman on January 4, 2026, in Muncie, Indiana, leaving behind a legacy rich with love, creativity, and unwavering dedication.

Emily was known to many as "The Chicken Mom," a title that perfectly encapsulated her unique zeal for life. She delighted in hatching her own chickens in an incubator, cultivating not just her flock but a passion that sparked joy in those around her. This enthusiasm for nurturing extended to her remarkable ability as a sewist, expressing her creativity through the fabric she lovingly molded into beautiful creations. Beyond her crafts, Emily found solace in working puzzles, a testament to her patient and determined spirit. Her heart sang at the rhythm of rock concerts, where she cherished moments spent with family and friends, embracing the music that fueled her soul. She was also an avid gardener and really enjoyed raising her poisonous plants.

Professionally, Emily dedicated her life to her work at Living Forward ABA Autism Center & Therapies in Wabash, Indiana, where she made a profound impact on the lives of many, weaving her compassion into every interaction. As a published author, she left her mark in literary spaces, sharing her thoughts and stories with the world. However, Emily's proudest accomplishments resided in her role as a mother; her beloved children, Castor and Sairyn Hughes, were the center of her universe.

Emily is survived by her devoted father, Anthony (Beth) Hughes; her loving mother, Melody Hughes; and her cherished siblings, Alison (Hannah) Hughes, Justin (Jessyca) Hughes, and Nyk Haley. She played the role of proud aunt to her nephews, Aadyn, Lincoln, and August. Emily’s family also includes her caring aunts, Rikki Whitton-Bailey and April Villes, who shared in the warmth and spirit she brought to their lives.

A Celebration of Life in honor of Emily will be held on January 9, 2026, at the Amvets Grant County Post 5 in Marion, Indiana. Friends and family are invited to gather from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, a time to reflect on the joy she spread and the lives she touched.

As we remember Emily, let us hold close the fragments of her legacy—the laughter, the music, the feathers of whimsy carried on the wings of her beloved chickens. She may have departed from this earthly realm, but the beauty of her spirit continues to live on in the hearts she loved and nurtured.