Michelle F. Hughes

Michelle was born September 7, 1965 in Independence, MO to James Robert and Janet Ruth (Schmenitzer) Bishop. Michelle was raised and educated primarily in Independence, MO, but her family spent three years of her youth in Pittsburgh, PA. The family moved back to Independence and she graduated from Van Horn in 1983.

After high school, Michelle worked in different capacities, but ultimately gained employment with the Jackson County Detention Center where she met her husband, Jack. Michelle would often joke that she met Jack in jail, but was quick to correct any wandering thoughts by sharing that it was while they both worked there. They were married April 28, 1990 in Independence, MO. From this union, one daughter Jessica was born. They began their married life residing in Raytown, MO and moved to Garden City, MO in the fall of 1997.

Throughout her professional life, Michelle worked in a variety of fields ranging from in-home child care to serving as a paralegal to working at a cattle ranch. She then joined the team at NeCo Seed Farms in Garden City, MO where she worked for 20 years as an Office Manager. She kept this role until she and Jack relocated to Excello, MO to be closer to Jessica, Nick, and Benson. After moving to Excello, Michelle worked with Jessica and Nick at Moberly Public Schools as the Bookkeeper, a career she loved.

Although Michelle loved crafting, gardening, and watching Wheel of Fortune, her favorite thing to do was spend time with her family. She loved getting to spend time with Benson, and took pride in being his Gigi. Michelle was known for her passion, dedication, kind heart, and loving spirit. She was truly a bright light for all that got to know her.

Michelle is preceded in death by Granny & Pap, and Grandpap.

She is survived by husband Jack Hughes of the home, daughter Jessica (Nick) Welker of Macon, Mo., and grandson Benson. Mother Janet (Nana) Lazenby of Independence. Brothers; Mike Bishop, Mark Bishop (Kathy), C.J. Lazenby (Addie). Sister; Melissa Morefield, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s, Sherwood Band Boosters, Sherwood Community Center (via the Garden City United Methodist Church), your chosen place of worship, or another charity organization that is meaningful to you.

A visitation for Michelle will be held Thursday, January 4, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at McGilley & Sheil Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 11924 East 47th Street, Kansas City, MO 64133, followed by a memorial service from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM.