Reflections of Life

Loretta Hughey Madison, affectionately known as “Sweet Lo” or “Rita,” passed away
peacefully on February 3, 2026, in Dallas, Texas, at the age of 87. Her life was a

testament to unwavering faith, enduring love, and steadfast devotion to her family and
community.
Born on May 20, 1938, in Glenville, Arkansas, to the parentage of the late Corint and
Johnnie Hughey. Loretta was raised with strong values rooted in hard work and
compassion. She attended Oak Grove High School in Rosston, Arkansas. After the
passing of her mother in 1957, Loretta selflessly stepped into the role of a mother figure
to her younger siblings— her strength of character and deep sense of responsibility.
Loretta’s early years were shaped by life on the farm, where she developed a resilient
spirit and tireless work ethic. In time, she married the late John T. Madison, and
together they had four beautiful children: Johnny, Sarah, Brenda, and Paul. In 1962, the
family moved to Dallas, Texas to begin a new chapter. There, Loretta dedicated 36
years of service as a highly regarded companion at the Sammons Institute. Her
commitment to caring for others extended far beyond her professional life and into every
corner of her world.
A woman of profound faith, Loretta accepted Christ at the age of 13 at New Zion Hill
Baptist Church in Stephens, Arkansas. She found her greatest purpose in serving the
Lord and helping others. Her spiritual journey continued when she joined Wiley Chapel
Missionary Baptist Church and later New Providence Missionary Baptist Church in
Dallas—in which she supported her beloved brothers, Pastor Hosea Hughey and
Deacon Artie Hughey in founding. For the final 22 years of her life, she worshiped
faithfully at New Providence, where she served as Mother of the Church, Church and
Sunday School Secretary, and one of the lead choir members. Her presence was a
source of comfort and inspiration to many within her church family. Her faith was not
only spoken, but lived—through kindness, generosity, and prayer.
Loretta cherished time spent with loved ones and maintained close bonds with both
family and friends throughout her life. She leaves to cherish her memory her four
children: Johnny Madison (Monica), Sarah Madison, Brenda Bass (Jerry), and Paul
Madison; six grandchildren: Brandalyn Madison, Desiree Madison, Tracie Waites
(Darrell), Tiffany Madison, Kimberly Tilley, and Richard Tilley Jr.; eight great-
grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Juanita Johnson; four
brothers: Pastor Hosea Hughey, Deacon Artie Hughey (Anna), Donnie Hughey, and
Ernest Hughey (Gloria); along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and
friends who were touched by her warmth and wisdom.
She was preceded in death by her husband, John T. Madison; five brothers: Rudolph
Hughey, Harold Hughey, Earlyn Hughey, Grover C. Hughey, and Baby Samuel; and
one sister, Sara Jean Moody.

Loretta leaves behind a legacy defined by love that uplifted others, laughter that
brightened hearts, strength that carried generations forward, compassion that healed
wounds seen and unseen—and above all, a faith that never wavered. Her nurturing
presence will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all whose lives she graced.
May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her, and may her legacy continue to
inspire generations to come.
A Viewing will be held on February 14, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Lincoln
Funeral Home & Memorial, 8100 Fireside Dr. Dallas, Texas 75217
A Celebration of Life will be held on February 21, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Mount
Vernon A.M.E. Church, 1152 Nevada 173., Stephens, Arkansas 71764
Final Resting Place at Mount Vernon Cemetery in Stephens.
Repass Mount Vernon A.M.E. Church
Please send flowers to Marks Funeral Home for Homegoing Service