Kelly R. Hughes, 89 of Des Arc passed away Monday, February 14.  He was born June 2, 1932 in Dalton, Georgia to Homer and Eunice Hughes. As Kelly grew he became interested in serving in the United States Air Force. He enlisted in 1947, at the age of 15 and served with distinction until his retirement August 1968.

In 1955, the second and most important event in his life came when he met Francis Faye Ingram. They met, fell in love, and soon began their journey together in life. In 1958 Kelly and Faye had their first child, Kelly Jr. followed in 1961 by their daughter, Cynthia Kaye.

Kelly retired from his first family, the USAF, August 1968 and moved back to Arkansas.  They returned to Des Arc in 1969 when Faye was appointed the Prairie County Health Nurse. Kelly managed his in-laws, Raymond and Mildred Ingrams, automotive parts store, assisted Mr. Ingram on the family farm and operated a laundromat in Biscoe. He enjoyed an interesting and varied career and was a wonderful husband and father.  He and Faye became the proud grandparents to Cindy's children, Mitch and Leah, and Kelly Jr's children, John and Matthew.  In his later years he stayed busy performing light work for friends and residents of Des Arc.  More significantly, he had the strength, commitment and love for Faye to provide care and support for her as she can no longer care for herself. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to DAV.org

Visitation will be Monday, March 14 from 5 -7 pm at Garth Funeral Home Chapel in Des Arc.  Graveside services will be held 12 p.m. Tuesday at the Veteran Cemetery.  1501 W. Maryland Avenue, NLR 72120