Patricia Anne Keenan Hughes, age 87 of Springfield, passed away after a short illness on October 7, 2021. Born on June 7, 1934, in Chicago, IL, Pat attended Catholic schools taught by Mercy nuns and throughout her life love d the connection with Mercy Hospital, especially the wonderful care she received during her most recent stay. She married James J. Hughes Jr. on May 8, 1954, and together they enjoyed the Army life which included living in many different locations in the United States as well as in Germany as they served our country together.  She had an incredible memory and shared countless stories from this time with her friends and family throughout her life.

Pat was devoted to her faith in God, in 1970 she and Jim joined St. Agnes Cathedral and just recently she moved her membership to St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton. Together, Pat and Jim had five children whom they cherished deeply.  Pat was a devoted mother and grandmother, always present at activities and events. Her love and kindness abounded in many ways, she loved finding special gifts to give to family and friends all over the country, and always had a story to go with them, mostly about the great discount she got on the gift.  She also had quite a card sending ministry and loved making people feel cared for and important on special celebrations. Pat was hospitable, opening her home to many people over the years, in fact the Hughes house has always been a place where anyone was welcomed and loved.  Her heart to help those in need was evident. In recent years she collected and donated hundreds of items to local charities. Her love for others was also seen through the many visits she made to elderly friends in nursing homes. Those that knew Pat would agree, she never met a stranger and always took the time to listen and talk, especially to those she called family and friends.

In her last days at Mercy Hospital, Pat quickly made connections with every care giver that came in the room. Several of the staff during that time mentioned to the family that entering her room was always so sweet and pleasant, a testimony of her love for people, even when her strength was weak. One final joy was a special call from her favorite Irish singer, Daniel O'Donnell, who called all the way from England to talk with one of his biggest fans.

Pat is survived by five children: Kevin Hughes of Springfield, Timothy (Cindy) Hughes of Fredericksburg, VA, Daniel (Mary) Hughes of Seattle, WA, Maureen (Randy) Copeland of Ozark and Margie Hughes of Springfield.

She is also survived by 10 grandchildren: Ben Hughes, Claire (Kevin) Turissini, Thomas and Colleen Hughes, Zak and Jake Hughes, James (Abi), Joseph (Shelby), and Josh (Erin) Copeland, and Jack (Sierra) Hughes Wilson and nine great-grandchildren: Anabelle, Mya, Brock, Leland, Kellan, Lottie, Elida, Owain and Maxine.

Pat is survived by her siblings Fran Keenan-Dodgen, Mike (Becky) Keenan, Joe (Chris) Keenan, Mary Keenan, Debby (Jack) Keenan-Piccola; many special nieces and nephews, the Herrity, Hughes, Wilke & Kohler families; countless dear friends and honorary daughter Denise A. Thomas.

Pat was proceeded in death by her husband James J. Hughes, Jr.; parents James Keenan, Sadie Keenan, Virginia Keenan, and sister Donna Herrity.

Visitation will be held Thursday, October 14, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Gorman-Scharpf Brentwood Chapel, 1947 E. Seminole, followed by a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. Funeral mass will be Friday, October 15, 11:00 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton. Burial will be in the Springfield Missouri Veterans Cemetery at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gathering Friends ( https://4agc.com/donation_pages/c9252832-caf3-4cf1-99eb-7450c0dc4699 ) or School to the Nations Ministry ( www.sttn.org ).