Sabrina L. Hughes

Sabrina L. Hughes, age 33, of Utica, journeyed and made it in as she passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 30, 2016 in the comfort of her home. Born in Hartford, Connecticut on December 30, 1982, Sabrina was the daughter of Willie L. and Kathy (Hymes) Hughes. She was raised in Hartford where she received her high school education. Sabrina subsequently attended Howard University in Washington, D.C. on a full academic scholarship. In 2014 Sabrina relocated to Utica to be closer to family. At one time, she worked locally as a Customer Service Representative at the Bank of America, as well as other positions that were based on assisting others in a hospitable way. She was a problem-solver, a skill that she used many times to help people resolve their dilemma and ease their stress. Sabrina was strong-willed, determined, and honest about how she felt. She had a great smile, and a hearty laugh. Even though she was strongly opinionated, she was equally funny. Her greatest accomplishment was connecting with people of any nationality or gender and becoming a confidant to many. Sabrina was loved, honored, and trusted by everyone to whom she extended her heart and her hand in friendship. In her domestic domain, she enjoyed cooking and was artful in her presentation. Though she never cooked her own ethnic foods, preparing cuisine was a passion to the point that others felt she had the talent to be a true chef. She often transformed a recipe, creating her own savory version for all to enjoy. She was happiest being with her family and her parents with whom she shared a special bond, although she was often accused of wanting to be the center of attention. During her leisure time, she loved watching the courtroom suspense Law & Order, and it was real to her. Her other passion was her pit bull who she loved as a son — “Mr. Zeus” — the tales about him never ended! Sabrina grew to love God, and she knew him to be her Lord and Savior. She praised him at Deliverance First Ministries Church of the Living God Pillar & Ground of the Truth where she drove the Church van, assisting Pastor Shirley Burgess with the Overcomer Connection Ministry. She prepared Sunday School breakfast, for which she was noted. Sabrina had the honor of opening the Church doors and welcoming all to worship and walk with Christ. Sabrina is survived by her parents, Deacon Willie, Jr. and Bishop Kathy Hughes; her brothers, Vishanna L. Hughes, and Willie L. Hughes, III; her foster siblings, Nyla, Joshua, Jalissa, and Makayla, her special girl with whom she shared a special bond; she was an adoring aunt to her nieces and nephews, Vishanna Jr., Trayshaun, Vishanti, Zyon, Malchi; Nahazyr, Taleigha, twins Lyric and Fortune, Billi, and Willa; her grandparents, Caretha Haynes, Manford and Emma Hymes, and Dorothy and James McColop; many aunts, uncles, and cousins, especially acknowledging Terrance Christian who was like a brother. Sabrina was also blessed with many wonderful and meaningful friendships throughout her life. She was predeceased by her grandfathers, Willie Hughes, Sr., and Lemon Haynes. The family wishes to thank Paul LeBron, Jr., Medical Examiner from the Department of Health, a sensitive and compassionate man who assisted the family during a difficult time. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 10-11 at the Peter Spencer Union American Methodist Episcopal (UAME) Church at 841 Bleecker St, Utica, 315-732-1568. Sabrina’s Home Going will be celebrated by her church family at 11:00 at the Peter Spencer Church. Expressions of sympathy in honor of Sabrina may be made to the Deliverance First Ministries CLG, 934 Sunset Avenue, Utica, NY 13502 Phone: 315-316-5355; envelopes will be available at the service.

Sabrina L. Hughes

December 30, 1982 - January 30, 2016