Linda D. (Chambers) Hughes

Brethren, we gather here to celebrate the homegoing of a beloved soul, Linda D. Hughes; a beacon of light and love to all who knew her. Born on the 19th of April in the year of our Lord 1952, in the warm embrace of Fayetteville, North Carolina. Linda was a cherished daughter, devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, and a guiding star in her community. On the 1st of March, 2024, the good Lord called her home from Mishawaka, Indiana; leaving a legacy of joy and inspiration.

Linda was the precious child of Raymond Chambers and Aretha (Jackson) Singleton, who preceded her in joining the heavenly choir. She was the heart's companion of Odell R. Hughes, whom she married on the 20th of March, 1976. Together, they nurtured a family that blossomed like a garden in spring. Their love bore fruit in their daughters, Shuntriece Hughes of Mishawaka; Darlene (Maurice Morgan) Hughes of South Bend; Rochelle (Amadou Djibo) Deanes of Greensboro, North Carolina; and their sons, Jacob L. (Cicely) Hughes of Osceola,

Indiana and Lamont Hughes of Dallas, Texas. Linda's life was further enriched by the laughter and wonder of her 12 grandchildren, Charles, Yaseen, Anthony, Audryanna, Aaron, Jennifer, Angelique, Autumn, Noel, Nikolas, Nilah, and Lil Jake along with the sweet innocence of her 5 great-grandchildren. Her brother, Wallace (Gwen) Singleton of Racine, Wisconsin, along with Uncle “Daddy” Jerome (Sharon Gatlin-Chambers) Chambers, and her Aunt Carol Chambers-Holly, and Aunt Virginia Singleton also remain to carry on the family's torch of love and unity. Linda was greeted in Heaven by her daughter Marie Courtland, her sister, Sandra Chambers, her brother Calvin Singleton and stepfather, Wallace Singleton who had gone on before her.

Sister Linda embarked on her educational journey at Parkside University in Kenosha, Wisconsin. With steadfast determination, she achieved her Bachelors of Education from Bethel University in Mishawaka. She dedicated over 25 years of her life to the noble profession of teaching; starting as a teacher's aide and eventually retiring from the South Bend Community School Corporation in 2020. Linda had a special place in her heart for children with special needs and worked tirelessly to ensure that each child felt seen, heard, and valued.

Her passion for teaching was matched only by her commitment to her community. Linda was a shining example of grace and poise. She became the first African American to place in the Miss Racine beauty pageant where she won 1st runner-up. She was a faithful member of St. Paul's Missionary Baptist Church in Racine. After relocating to South Bend, Linda became the First Lady at the New Peter's Rock Missionary Baptist Church and later at The New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church where her husband was Pastor. They later founded the Greater Victory Mission Church and she eventually became a devoted servant at New Horizons Outreach Ministry in South Bend. There, she taught Sunday school and poured her heart into every soul she encountered.

Linda's interests were as vibrant as her personality. She enjoyed cooking, engaging in various arts and crafts, and was renowned for her impeccable sense of fashion. Her voice was as beautiful as her spirit; lifting praises to the Lord in song that could soothe the weariest of hearts.

Today, we do not say goodbye to Linda D. Hughes; for she lives on in the memories we cherish, the lessons she taught, and the love she shared. Her life was a testament to the power of faith, the beauty of dedication, and the joy of service. Let us hold fast to the warmth of her smile, the wisdom of her words, and the tenderness of her touch.

Celebration of Linda’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at New Horizon Outreach Ministry, 56165 Mayflower Rd, South Bend, IN. Viewing will occur one hour prior to the service. There will also be a visitation on Friday, March 8, at the church from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Burial will immediately follow services at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, South Bend. Palmer Funeral Home – West Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorial contributions and online condolences may be made in Linda’s honor to her family via her obituary page on the Palmer Funeral Home website at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.