Francis Robert Hughes

Francis Hughes ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Heil-Schuessler & Sinn Funeral Home in Sparta on Mar. 6, 2026.Francis Robert Hughes, 97, of Sparta, IL; born on April 19, 1928 in Brickeys, MO, the son of John and Ida Mae Hughes; passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at R&R Country Care Senior Living in Ruma, IL.Francis was a veteran of the United States Navy, serving his Country during the Korean War. He was a mechanic in the service who brought the trade home with him and put it to use. Francis could work on anything, and everyone knew it. People would travel from all over to have him work on their equipment or vehicles. He worked for Peabody Coal Company at Pit 6, servicing their equipment when it was needed. Francis also enjoyed doing taxidermy. He was an avid hunter and member of several different organizations that supported animal/land conservation, such as Ducks Unlimited and the National Rifle Association. He was also a past president of the Sparta Coon Club. Francis was passionate about helping those who had lost their way; he would travel to local prisons and pray for those who were suffering from addiction. He was always there to offer counseling or show support for those in need. Francis was a devout Christian who served as a trustee for many years at Landmark Apostolic Church in Sparta.He is survived by his loving wife – Katherine (née, Keeton) Hughes to whom he married on June 23, 1974; eight children – David (Carol) Hughes, Joyce Burlison, Bruce Robert (Kathy) Hughes, Frank Robert (Martha) Hughes, Phyllis (Mark) Hale, Juanita (Jeff) Burgess, Susie (Elmer) Pollard, and Diane (John) Misener; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.Francis was preceded in death by his parents; three children – Ronald Dale Hughes, James Kelly Hughes, and Dawn Hopper; siblings – Helen Evers, Susie Cury, Carrie Hughes, Opal Copple, Leroy Hughes, and Albert Hughes; son-in-law – Kevin Burlison.Memorial contributions may be made to Landmark Apostolic Church in Sparta, IL.Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.heilschuessler.com.The Visitation will be held at Landmark Apostolic Church in Sparta, IL on Thursday, March 12, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Funeral Services will begin at 12:00 noon with Pastor Doug Rice officiating. Committal Services will take place at Caledonia Cemetery in Sparta, IL.Heil-Schuessler & Sinn Funeral Home in Sparta, IL is in charge of arrangementsTo plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.