The world has lost a bright spark but the night sky has gained a star.

Jean Ann Hughes was born October 11, 1962 and passed away on April 15, 2019.

Jean had spunk and an unforgettable twinkle in her eyes. She was many things to many people. A loving partner, beautiful daughter, best big sister ever, perfect fun Auntie, and doting doggie mom.

She was also a teacher to all who knew her. Certainly to her band students at Mio AuSable High School, but also to her friends, family and those who knew her from support groups and social media, where Jean leant her strength while sharing - in such a positive way - her recent struggles.

Jean dispensed her endless humor and grace in the face of challenges. Far from seeking sympathy, Jean freely shared her awe of the world and her appreciation of life's beauty. Jean was funny, brilliant, strong, inspiring, intrepid, compassionate and genuinely kind and loving - with a wonderful hint of sarcasm when called for.

Her curiosity and sense of adventure led her to creating treasured memories while working at Yellowstone National Park, as the Band Director at Mio AuSable High School, and as a percussionist at Central Michigan University. More recently she shared her administrative talents and sharp problem solving skills with co-workers and clients at Thompson Pharmacy and Munson Medical Center.

Jean's greatest loves were her partner of 15 years, Kathy, and two pups, Lulu and Maggie Mae. She enjoyed kayaking, hiking and photography - with a particular passion for the Northern Lights and night's sky.

Jean is survived by her mother, Virginia Hughes, sister Jill (Rodney) Wert, nephews Raymond Wert and Phillip Wert, niece Ellen (Joshua) Hawkins, and her partner, Kathy Partin. She was loved fiercely by Kathy's parents, sisters and brothers-in-law and nieces and nephews. She was pre-deceased by her father Danny Hughes, and her sister Amy Hughes.

Jean was one of the best among us, we are all better for having known her.

In Jean's honor, take a moment to gaze at the night sky, find a star, make a wish and express gratefulness and awe of this wonderful world, as Jean often did.

A celebration of Jean's remarkable being will be held on Wednesday, April 24, 2019 at 4pm with a visitation beginning one hour prior at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy or the Great Lakes Humane Society. Kindly share thoughts and memories with Jeans family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com . The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.