Eva M Hughes, aged 90, died peacefully in her home, surrounded by loving family members on April 26, 2025. 

Born Mary Eva Villanueva on February 2, 1935, in Mesilla, New Mexico, Eva was the first born child of Manuel Levario Villanueva and Angela Flores. As their eldest child, she paved the way with many firsts: the first to graduate high school, the first to graduate college, and the first to gain their teacher's credential. 

Eva worked for nearly 10 years as a substitute teacher for the Manteca USD until she was hired full time as the head of the Independent Study Program. She remained in that position until her retirement in 1999. She also served as the State Treasurer for the California Consortium of ISP for many years. 

After her retirement, Eva enjoyed creating the garden of her dreams (and waging war on the gophers and weeds at the same time) and spending her summers at Lawson's Landing at Tomales Bay. She never missed an episode of Lawrence Welk and Antiques Roadshow and loved music ranging from Glenn Miller to Linda Ronstadt. 

Eva is survived by her husband James CW Hughes, her children; Harold Hughes, Dennis Hughes, Lyle Hughes, and daughter, Stephanie Hughes, as well as 9 grandchildren and 9 great–grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers; Avelino and Johnny Villanueva, and sisters, Vera Ramirez, Elisa Riddle, and Rose McGinnis as well as countless nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by both of her parents, her brother, Adam Villanueva, and sister, Esther Villanueva. 

The family would like to give a special thanks to Amore Hospice and all of their excellent nurses and social workers for helping make our mother's last months dignified and comforting. Per our mother's wishes, no services will be held at this time, however, later in the year, her loved ones will gather at Lawson's Landing to send her off with one last big celebration. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital