Rodney Allen Hughes

Rodney Allen Hughes, 59, of Jefferson City, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 18, 2020 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 18, 1961 in Jefferson City, Missouri, a son of Richard "Dick" and Norma Lee (Brunnert) Hughes. He was united in marriage to Lori Nilges on September 2, 2005, who survives at their home. Rodney was a 1979 graduate of Helias High School. He was employed with Exchange Bank from 1979 until 1984. Rodney joined the Missouri Army National Guard in 1983 and began full-time service in 1984. He was deployed to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005 and upon his return in 2006 was awarded the Bronze Star. Rodney obtained the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 5 in 2020. Rodney enjoyed coaching and attending his kids' games and was their biggest fan and critic. Rodney's competitive spirit was unmatched and there was never a challenge he did not accept. He was also an artist and completed many drawings that family and friends will enjoy forever. He cherished every moment spent with family and friends, especially while at the lake. Rodney treasured time with his five grandbabies. His infectious smile and sense of humor were one of a kind and left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. Rodney is survived by his wife: Lori Hughes of Jefferson City; mother: Norma Hughes of Jefferson City; children: Kaley Ash (Tyler) of California, Mo., Staci Kampeter (Trey) of Lohman, Mo., Maggie Hughes of Springfield, Mo., and Nick Alexander, Lauren Alexander, Max Hughes of the home; sister: Jana Agniel (Chris); brothers: Rick Hughes (Jody), Randy Hughes (Barb), Doug Hughes (Leigh Anne), Denny Hughes (Carole), Scott Hughes (Carly), Kip Hughes (Tessie) and Brad Hughes (Andrea); and grandchildren: Cole, Ella, and Layne Ash, and Reese and Gwynn Kampeter. Rodney was preceded in death by his father and fathers-in-law: Freddie Nilges and Norman "Doc" Baldwin. Friends will be received from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, June 22, 2020 at Houser-Millard Funeral Directors. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Jefferson City with Fr. Joshua Duncan and Fr. Ignazio Medina officiating. Interment will follow in Resurrection Cemetery immediately following Mass. Due to social distancing restrictions, friends are invited to attend the live streaming session of Mass and celebration of Rodney's life at Capital Bluffs Event Center, 1616 Oilwell Road, Jefferson City, MO 65101. In lieu of flowers, it is requested that expressions of sympathy be made to ALS Foundation or the Gary Sinise Foundation. Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 West Main Street, Jefferson City, MO 65109; (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com.