Mrs. Dana (Roberts) Hughes

UTICA/NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FL - Mrs. Dana D. “The Queen” (Roberts) Hughes, age 59, went to be with the Lord unexpectedly on Thursday, February 12, 2026, in the comfort and dignity of her home in Florida. Born in Utica on August 14, 1966, Dana was the daughter of Sheryl A. (Fiaschi) Roberts and the late Edward F. “Ted” Roberts II. She attended the Holland Patent Central School District, graduating in 1985. It was on a memorable Christmas Eve that Kevin D. Hughes asked Dana for her hand in marriage, and they were wed on May 3, 1986. The two were truly best friends, bound by trust in one another. They could not have had more fun; they were one in unity. Dana was a loving and devoted wife and mother. Many of her children’s friends felt so comfortable in her presence that they affectionately called her “Mom.” She was the go-to mother, whether it involved relationships, important decisions, comforting words, or thoughtful advice. Blessed with intuitive insight and remarkable wisdom, Dana had a marvelous way of guiding young hearts and minds. She was fair in her counsel, never breaking confidences, and was trusted deeply in that sacred role. The Hughes’ house was “home base,” always welcoming for so many. Dana and Kevin began their business ventures by owning and operating a Cold Stone Creamery franchise in New Hartford. They later opened a Ship Rite packaging company in North Utica. Her greatest joy came from owning and managing the Carlowden Country Club. She found her niche in hospitality and food service there, where her passion shined. From preparing daily menus to perfecting TikTok recipes with her own unique approach, she had a natural instinct when it came to preparing food. Always making “just enough,” she managed her business beyond expectations, blending creativity with strong and thoughtful leadership. As a mother, Dana gave unconditionally, making her family life her highest priority. She stayed home for many years, supporting each interest her children pursued. Dana was audacious and strong-willed, determined, and full of vibrant energy. She saw the glass half full and stood up for the underdog, always willing to see both sides of a story. She proudly referred to herself as “The Queen,” a title lovingly echoed by many from different chapters of her life. Dana wanted to refrain from using any word that would be offensive, so she coined the phrase “touch-hole” when she was uncertain of someone’s character. This was all part of her unique and genuine humor that rarely ended, for she was truly blessed with a remarkably witty approach to life’s experiences. For several years, Dana and her family traveled to their winter home in New Smyrna Beach, a place they deeply appreciated. There, they formed lasting friendships and created never-ending bonds. It became a cherished gathering place for family and friends alike. Dana was an artist at heart. She loved photography and approached it with remarkable creativity and a keen eye for detail. Learning diamond art on TikTok became one of her favorite pastimes; a quiet, focused expression of her artistic spirit. Her radiant smile could light up any room and was a true reflection of her vibrant personality. She was a formidable friend, loyal and steadfast. Dana kept a squeaky-clean home and did not appreciate anything being out of place; everything had its order and purpose. Her family was always Dana’s greatest accomplishment. She raised her children with strong values and love, and now, as parents themselves, they emulate her example. Known affectionately as “DeeDee” to her grandchildren, the name was one everyone recognized and cherished. She adored those children beyond measure, and they brought immense joy to her life. Dana celebrated special moments with imagination and creativity. She was a deeply involved grandmother who knew exactly how to make her grandchildren smile and laugh. She continued to offer parental guidance and loving advice in her own unique way. At the golf course, behind the 13th hole, Dana would bring the kids by golf cart to what she called the “troll hole.” It was a magical space with expectations and traditions that belonged only to her. Fairies and dinosaurs were her thing, and she created worlds of wonder for her grandchildren to enjoy. From a young age, Dana was a believer. Her faith grounded her life, and her decisions were guided by prayer and conviction. Her faith in Christ was unwavering and remained a constant source of strength. As Dana would always say, “I’ll call you right back!” Dana is survived by her devoted husband, Kevin; daughter, Alicia “Lisha” (Hughes) Williams and Dana’s “favorite” son-in-law, Ryan Williams; her son and daughter-in-law, Nathan and Kayla Hughes; precious grandchildren, Jace and Jax Williams; and Braeden, Liam, and Raegan Hughes. Dana is also survived by her mother, Sheryl A. (Fiaschi) Roberts; siblings and their spouses, Edward F. “Teddy” III and Brigitte Roberts, Stacey and John Tyrrell, and Leslie and Scott Welpe; many loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews; aunts and uncles, especially Sue Fiaschi; cousins; father-in-law and mother-in-law, David and Margaret “Peggy” (All) Hughes; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Keith and Maryann Hughes, and Stephen and Jennifer Hughes. Dana and Kevin were blessed with many treasured friendships, relationships that felt like family and endured throughout their lives. Together they shared laughter, lasting memories, and bonds that will never be broken, especially her Brantingham Lake and New Smyrna Beach friends, as well as the staff, patrons, and friends of the Carlowden Country Club. A very special thank you is extended to Tim and Trish Martens, whose unwavering support and comfort meant so much. They held a special place in Dana’s heart and were a tremendous source of strength and support to Kevin during her untimely passing. A Memorial Gathering in Dana's honor will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 2:00-4:30 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Dana's Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 4:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Flowers fade, but memories last forever. In lieu of floral offerings, the family kindly requests that you share a note with a favorite memory or memento that reminds you of Dana. The Hughes family would be deeply honored to receive your sentiments.

Mrs. Dana (Roberts) Hughes

August 14, 1966 - February 12, 2026