Loretta "Rhett" Hughes

On July 8, 2026, Loretta "Rhett" Hughes took her final journey, leaving this earthy life to soar with the angels and find peace in the loving arms of God. She passed away peacefully at St. Luke's Jerome Medical Center in Jerome, Idaho, at the age of 74, surrounded by the family and friends who loved her deeply.

To most, she was simply "Rhett." She had a spirit that was impossible to forget—a woman who embraced life with determination, laughter, and a heart that never stopped loving the people around her.

Mom was born on September 11, 1951, in Rawlins, Wyoming, to Chester "Chet" and Juanita Holliday. She was the fourth of seven children, growing up surrounded by the lively chaos and lifelong bonds that only a big family can bring. Her childhood took her from Rawlins to Montpelier, Idaho, where she attended Bear Lake High School, before eventually settling in Logan, Utah.

It was there, while working as a waitress at a local restaurant, that she met her first love, George M. Hughes. Together they welcomed two children who became the center of her world: Patrick O. Hughes, born in 1969, and Nikki J. Kober, born in 1973. Although their marriage ended in 1975, Rhett's greatest role had only just begun—that of being a devoted mother.

Later in life, Mom found companionship with David K. Oneida. Though they never married, they built a life side by side, sharing years of friendship, love, and unwavering devotion. They were truly inseparable.

Throughout her life, Mom wore many hats. She worked as a waitress, a model, a bartender, an office manager, and a bookkeeper. Yet if you asked her family what she did best, they would all give the same answer: she was a mom and a grandma. Nothing brought her greater pride or joy than her children and grandchildren.

If you wanted to find Mom on a beautiful summer afternoon, chances are she'd be outside on her back porch, soaking up the sunshine she loved so much. She found peace watching hummingbirds dart through the air and butterflies drift through her garden. She loved gardening, ranching, horseback riding, snowmobiling, chariot racing, horse racing, and cheering from the sidelines as her children competed in sporting events. Summers often meant camping at West Magic Reservoir and taking rides in "Kermit," her beloved dune buggy, creating memories that her family and friends will treasure forever. Mom found joy in bright, cheerful colors, especially peach and purple, which were always her favorites and reflected her vibrant spirit.

Mom's life was not without hardship. She faced challenges that would have defeated many, yet she met them with resilience, determination, and courage. She continued moving forward, always finding a way to love, laugh, and care for those around her. Her strength became an inspiration to everyone who knew her.

Above all else, Mom loved her family. She was a cherished daughter, sister, companion, friend, mother, and grandmother. Her grandchildren were among her greatest blessings, and she delighted in every moment she spent with them. She also shared an unwavering bond with her many dear friends, whose love and support enriched her life in countless ways.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Chester and Juanita Holliday; her sisters, Joanne Lindsey, Heidi Meeks, and Sandra Holliday; her brother, Larry Holliday; and her beloved companion, David K. Oneida.

Mom leaves behind her loving sisters, Diane McCauley and Rebecca (Gary) Griffith; her son, Patrick Hughes; her daughter, Nikki Kober; her cherished grandchildren, Riley and Tyler Hughes, and Wyatt and Waylon Kober; her faithful canine companion, Keisha; and countless extended family members and dear friends whose lives were forever touched by her love.

Our family extends its deepest gratitude to the compassionate doctors, nurses, staff, and caregivers at St. Luke's Jerome Medical center for the exceptional care they gave mom during her final days. We are especially grateful to Chaplain Dwayne, Dr. Duff, and the many nurses whose kindness and compassion brought comfort not only to mom, but to our entire family and mom's friends.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm, Saturday. August 8, 2026, at the Jerome Elks Lodge, 412 East 200 South, Jerome, Idhao. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow the service.

A live webcast of the funeral will be available during the services and will remain accessible afterwards using the links provided.

Mom, your journey here may be over, but your story lives on in every life you touched. We will think of you whenever the hummingbirds visit, when the butterflies dance across the garden, and when the summer sun warms our faces. Fly high, Mom.

So go enjoy that heavenly sunshine. Find Dave. Give everyone in Heaven a hug from us. Take Kermit for a spin if they have one. And if Heaven doesn't know how to throw a party yet, we're confident you'll show them how.

Until we meet again, you will forever be loved, forever be missed, and forever be in our hearts. 

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on Rhett's memorial webpage at www.farnsworthmortuary.com.