Erlene Anna Hughes

Erlene was a scholar and voracious reader. She graduated from Crowley High School as Valedictorian. Although, she was always quick to point out that there wasn’t much competition, as all the boys were away at war. Erlene attended teacher’s college for one year in Greeley. She returned home to marry her true love Roy Hughes. They were wed on July 31, 1949.

Roy and Erlene had two children, Gail Anderson and Paul Hughes. Erlene spent most of her life farming, ranching, and chasing kids. Rodeo would become the heart and soul of Roy and Erlene’s lives. Nobody could keep points at the rodeos as fast or as accurate as Erlene. Roy and Erlene had an open door policy for their house that extended to their arena. The arena lights were always on for everyone needing that extra practice. Erlene made it a priority to have snacks, bikes, and toys for every kid that came to her place. She cared deeply about every single one of them. Maybe you were one of them.

Erlene not only took care of kids, she took care of entire crews of men on a daily basis. She also served her community proudly. From Sunday school to 4-H, Erlene worked very hard. She and Roy were proud recipients of the State Conservation award, as well as, Grand Marshall of Crowley County Days.

Erlene was a competitive woman. Whether it was golf, bowling, or cards she liked to win. She has passed this on to her family. She has taught many of her grandchildren and great grandchildren how to play as well. However, she never gave up an easy win. Wins are to be earned with fairness and hard work.

Erlene attended Crowley Community Baptist Church early in life and then attended The River of Life Fellowship.

Erlene’s legacy will truly live on for generations through the children of Crowley County, as many were raised in her backyard. She attended every event she could get to. She always had treats or snacks for kiddos right up to the end.
Erlene is survived by, daughter, Gail Hughes Anderson, son, Paul (Toni) Hughes, grandchildren, Clint (Bonnie) Anderson, Clay (Lauren) Anderson, Kyle (Manchie) Hughes, and Kashlee (Tyler) Karney. Great grandchildren, Kaycee, Larkin, Ace, Owen, Alexa, Carly, Griffin, Gunner, Ghett, Gyntri, Krew, Kwade, and Tenley. Also, brother, Jack Lundahl along with many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Erlene’s family would like to thank the Sangre de Cristo Hospice for several years of excellent care.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Erlene’s name to the Sangre de Cristo Hospice (1107 Pueblo Blvd Way, Pueblo, CO 81005) or The River of Life Fellowship (411 E. 9th St. Ordway, CO 81063).

Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

www.peacockfh.com