Marjean Rita Hughes

Marjean Rita Hughes, passed away in her sleep on July 21st surrounded by family and friends. Marjean endured two years of cancer treatments after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2020.

Marjean was born to Marvin and Elda McGowan on September 8th 1953, in Long Beach, California. The youngest of three, Marjean was treasured as a child for the miracle she was. Growing up in Lakewood, Marjean made lifelong friends with her neighbors on Candlewood Street and enjoyed being a part of two choir groups in high school.

At a New Year’s Eve Party, Marjean met Gary Hughes. They married 2 years later on March 29th 1980. Gary and Marjean went on to buy a house in Lakewood and have three children: Christopher, Marisa, and Matthew.

The first in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree, Marjean graduated from Cal State Long Beach and pursued a master’s degree while having young children at home. Marjean had a lifelong career with Long Beach Unified School District. Starting out as an elementary school teacher of English Second Language students, she quickly realized her passion for the administrative side of education. Excelling in her roles as a facilitator for 10 years and a principal for 19 years before her retirement in 2015. Marjean is most remembered by her staff for introducing community events, like trunk or treats, and cultivating their growth as educators.

Being a part of the Lutheran church community was important to her. She played the accordion in a polka band, was an active member of Luther league and a youth leader. She served on church boards to select new pastors and grow the school program for infant care and preschool.

In her retirement, Marjean pursued her summertime hobby of traveling year-round. In addition to being a loving wife, mother, and devoted educator, Marjean was truly the “Favorite Aunt” to her extensive family. A title she seems to have self appointed but all the same, no one could deny it. Marjean was always there to support her family, attending every play, recital, and game she could. Everyone’s Favorite Aunt made sure to always have snacks and games at the ready for whoever came around to her home.

A truly caring and selfless woman, who went out of her way to make sure everyone felt welcomed and loved. Marjean’s affection and kindness were immediately apparent and always present when sharing moments with her. Marjean’s gracious spirit, warmth, and infinitely kind heart will never be forgotten. She will forever be in the hearts of those whose lives she has touched. For they will remember and continue to spread her eternal love.

Marjean joins her parents, Marvin and Elda, and her brother, Larry, in Heaven. She is survived by her husband, Gary, her sister, Mary Kay and her children, Christopher, Marisa, and Matthew.