Frances Jane (Bolt) Hughes

Frances Jane (Bolt) Hughes, affectionately known to her family as Big Mom, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2025, at the age of 100. She was born on November 4, 1924, in El Dorado, Arkansas, to Verna Alivia (Faulkner) Bolt and Ottis Homer Bolt.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 74 years, Andy L. Hughes, two brothers, Carl and Durward Bolt, and two sons-in-law, Billy Joe Selby and Jerry Cox. She is survived by her four children: Wanza L. (Butch) Heard, Gwendolyn J. Hughes, Terry G. (Vicki) Hughes, and Suzetta A.Cox; Three sisters Ella Faye Barfield, Glenda Nelson, and Patsy White; 13 grandchildren and their spouses; 22 great-grandchildren; and 8 great-great-grandchildren—along with numerous nieces and nephews who were touched by her warmth and wisdom.

Big Mom devoted her life to her family. She was known for her generous heart and her remarkable ability to stretch any meal with leftovers, always making sure there was enough for everyone. Her home was a place of comfort, filled with laughter, storytelling, and unconditional love. In addition to her dedication to her home and family, she worked for many years as a beautician in California and Arkansas. She also served as a switchboard operator for Sears and Roebuck and later assisted members at the Arkadelphia Country Club Pro Shop. Her strong work ethic and warm personality made her beloved by those she served and worked alongside. She was a proud member of Third Street Baptist Church of Arkadelphia and the Extension Homemakers Council where she built lasting friendships and faithfully served her community. She found joy in quilting, sewing, writing poetry, and crafting—skills she passed down with love and patience. Earlier in life, she was also known for her love of basketball and proudly played for the Whelen Springs School District.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Nightingale in Arkadelphia, Baptist Home Health and Area Agency on Aging of West Central Arkansas for their support and kindness during her final years. Big Mom’s legacy lives on in the countless memories shared by her family. Her presence was a source of strength, her home a place of peace, and her love was the thread that stitched generations together. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Memorial services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at Ruggles-Wilcox Chapel with Bro. Ken Beaver and Bro. Greg Latham officiating. Visitation will be prior to the service at 1:00 p.m.

Arrangements by Smith Family Funeral Home Arkadelphia, 517 Clay Street, Arkadelphia, Arkansas. www.smithfamilycares.com