Patricia L Hughes

April 1, 2020

Monte Alto/Donna- Patricia Shull Hughes passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 1st, at the home of her sister. She was seventy-one years old. After graduating from high school, she continued her education at Pan American University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Pat was passionate about education and thrived in her career. For thirty-five years, she was the quintessential science teacher at Donna High School. Through her years of service, she taught Physics, Introduction to Physics and Chemistry, Earth Space Science, Geology, Environmental Science, Chemistry, Biology, and Texas High School Completion. She also served on numerous committees and sponsored many clubs. Pat served as department head for Donna High School’s science department. Thousands of students have been positively impacted and influenced by Pat’s love of nature, wildlife, music, and adventure. As the science club sponsor, she introduced many students to camping, hiking, rappelling, tubing, and cave exploration. Her love of nature and conservation benefitted Donna ISD for years beyond her tenure. Pat was instrumental in the designing of the wetland ecosystem constructed at Donna High School. Pat lived most of her adult life at the old homestead in Monte Alto, enjoying nature and the home where she grew up. Pat loved her music and played guitar. Many locals will remember Pat from the “Overland Express Ban,”, where she sang throughout the valley for many years. Pat is survived by her son, Travis Hughes (Danella) from Donna and daughter, Penny Lewis (Cynan) from Australia. Also, four grandchildren, Ellie Lewis, Alun Lewis, Thomas Lewis, and Carson Hughes. She is also survived by three sisters, Betty Chapman(Dick), Mary Anne Pruitt(Bobby), Beverly Murden(Gerald), and two brothers, James Shull (Pat-deceased), Richard Shull (Lois) and many nieces, nephews and cousins who loved her dearly. She was preceded in death by her brother Robert Shull and her parents Arthur and Roberta. Due to the Coronavirus, a Memorial service will be held at a later date to celebrate her life.