Ramona Hughes

Ramona Maire Long was born on May 23, 1929, in Arcadia, Iowa, to Frances (Deluhery) and John Long. The family later moved to Carroll, where Ramona graduated from St. Angela’s Academy in 1947. After briefly working in Des Moines, she returned to Carroll and was employed by Bell Telephone, where she “pulled plugs and connected people.” She worked there until 1963, when she married Charles “Chuck” Hughes on September 2, 1963.

Chuck and Mona made their home in Manning, along with Chuck’s two children, Linda and Chuck. Together, they welcomed three children of their own: Patricia, Lisa, and Mike. As fans of antiques and estate sales, they were thrilled to purchase their dream home on 1st Street, which they filled with the many treasures they collected over the years.

Chuck and Mona were active members of Sacred Heart Parish and deeply involved in the Manning community and their children’s activities. Mona especially enjoyed cooking and baking, gardening, she truly had a green thumb, and spending time with family and friends. As their children grew and grandchildren arrived, they cherished every moment spent together as a family. Mona will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Mona lost her husband, Chuck, in December 2005 and later moved to Des Moines to be closer to her family. She passed away on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Eden Crest in Beaverdale, Iowa, at the age of 96 years, seven months, and 21 days. She was also preceded in death by her parents.

Mona is survived by her children: Linda Helgevold (Kevin) of Irvine, California; Chuck Hughes (Cindy) of Des Moines; Patricia Hughes of Wichita, Kansas; Lisa Leos (Keith Morris) of Wichita, Kansas; and Michael Quinn (Jess) of Des Moines. She is also survived by her sister, Jean Zerwas (Phil) of Sheridan, Wyoming; 14 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Manning. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Templeton. Memorial donations may be directed to Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Manning.