Michaela M. Hughes, age 25, of Tewksbury, formally of Andover, passed away from injuries sustained in a bus accident while traveling in Peru.
Born in Methuen on March 28, 2000, she is the beloved daughter of George A. Hughes and Colleen R. (Riley) Hughes.
Michaela was raised in Andover, attended St. Augustine School and graduated from Central Catholic High School in 2018. Following high school she attended UMass Boston. Michaela was a preschool teacher at the Wonder Years Learning Center in Wilmington.
Michaela was a radiant light in the lives of all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and boundless kindness. Michaela had a unique ability to brighten every room she entered with her warm smile and contagious laughter, making everyone feel welcomed, comfortable, and included. To Michaela, a stranger was simply a friend she had yet to meet, and her infectious spirit drew people in effortlessly.
Family and friends were at the heart of Michaela's life. She dedicated herself to ensuring that everyone felt valued, often going the extra mile to celebrate special moments. Her presence was a breath of fresh air and she consistently showed up for those she loved, embodying the true essence of friendship and support. Michaela had a natural affinity for young children. She loved her nieces and nephew fiercely and babysitting them was one of her greatest joys.
Michaela's wanderlust spirit drove her to explore the world from the ages of 18 to 25, embarking on adventures that took her to the farthest corners of the globe. Her travels were not just about seeing new places; they were about connecting with others and making a difference. She spent significant time in developing countries, where she passionately taught prepubescent girls in Ghana about feminine care, empowering them with knowledge and confidence.
Her thirst for knowledge and experience led her to earn a yoga certification in India, where she immersed herself in both the practice and the culture. Michaela's adventurous soul also took her to breathtaking sites like Machu Picchu in Peru and the majestic Himalayas in Nepal, where she hiked through stunning landscapes. She even lived above the clouds in Costa Rica, embracing the beauty of nature and the joy of life.
In addition to her significant travels, Michaela found joy in spontaneity, often seizing opportunities for adventure, especially when they arose at the last minute. Her time at a week-long music festival in Portugal was filled with laughter and friendships that spanned the globe, showcasing her ability to connect deeply with others.
Michaela will be profoundly missed by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. Her legacy of love, kindness, and adventure will continue to inspire those left behind to embrace life with the same enthusiasm and compassion she so effortlessly shared. In her honor, let us remember to cherish each moment, seek out the beauty in the world around us, and always extend a hand to those in need.
Besides her parents, she is survived by her grandmother, Sheila B. Riley of Chelmsford, sister, Stephanie R. Hughes, of Tewksbury, two brothers, Matthew R. Hughes and his wife Karissa, of Andover and Christopher, J. Hughes and his wife Katie, of North Andover: her aunts and uncles, Patricia A. Cardin and her husband Rich, of Seabrook, NH, Darlene R. Watkins and her husband, Ray, of Londonderry, NH and Shaun T. Riley, of Oklahoma: nieces and nephews, Harper R. Hughes, Camden R. Hughes, Mia R. Hughes, and Stevie K. Hughes: cousins, Ryan J. Batts, Caitlin S. Batts, Thomas J. Riley, Morgan J. Riley, Ireland K. Riley, Barbara F. Watkins and Isabella V.F. Watkins.
Michaela was predeceased by her grandfathers, John J. Riley and George R. Hughes and was also predeceased by her grandmother, Marie E. Hughes.
Calling hours are Saturday, December 27 from 9 a.m. to 11 AM at the Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, 16 Lee Street, Tewksbury, followed by her funeral Mass to be celebrated at 11:30 AM at Saint Williams Church, 1351 Main Street, Route 38, Tewksbury. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, please honor Michaela‘s memory with a donation to The Home for Little Wanderers..