Carol McHugh

Carol M. McHugh, 85, of Downers Grove, and formerly of Rockford, passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning, July 29, 2023. Carol was born to Harold and Bernita Ward (Ollman) in Rockford, where she was raised and attended school. Carol met James “Jim” McHugh, marrying him in 1959. Carol was a “Super Mom”, raising four boys and working as an executive administrative assistant. She started with Barber Coleman, and retired from Sundstrand in the early 2000s after working there nearly 20 years. She was an involved member with the International Association of Administrative Professionals, formerly known as Professional Secretaries International, in the Chapter here locally. She was also a loyal member of her churches through the years, including Grace Lutheran and GPS Faith Community Church. She participated in the choir as well as community outreach volunteer work. On top of her career and involvement with church, she was also a “Den Mother” for Cub Scouts.

In her retired years, Carol became fond of many activities. She enjoyed starting each morning with a fresh cup of coffee, sitting on her deck, and watching the many birds that came to visit her birdhouses and bird feeders. She also was fascinated with genealogy – tracing back her side of the family as well as her husband’s. Her and James even incorporated this into their travel time in the motorhome by visiting her roots in Missouri. James also made sure to bring Carol to visit the lighthouses on the coasts, which she loved dearly. She also loved a good jigsaw puzzle, or playing a round of cards with her family (especially Hand and Foot). One of her most favorite memories with her family would include when they took her to see Neil Diamond in the 90s.

Carol is survived by her children, JR (Anne) McHugh, Gary (Anabelle) McHugh, Harold (Joy) McHugh, and Robert McHugh; 8 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; siblings, Frank (Dee) Ward and Peg Johnson; many nieces and nephews.

Carol was reunited with her husband, Jim, who passed on July 6 of this year after 64 years of marriage; parents, Harold and Bernita.

A memorial service for Carol will take place at Sunset Funeral Home on Saturday, August 12, 2023, at 2:00 PM, with a visitation prior at 1:00 PM. Following services, Carol will be placed with Jim at Sunset Memorial Gardens.