In Memory
Essie Lee Neal (Hughley)
August 28, 1944 ~ January 21, 2026 (age 81)
Essie Lee (Neal) Hughley, 81, of South Bend, Indiana, entered Heaven’s gates on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by warmth, laughter, and love. Known for her radiant spirit and an energy that could light up a room, Essie was a woman, who did not just live life, she embraced it.
Essie’s life journey began on August 28, 1944, in the town of Portageville, Missouri. She was born the daughter of Roy and Beatrice Neal who raised her with the values of hard work, kindness, and faith. Along with her family, she relocated to South Bend, where she attended Oliver Elementary School and Central High School. Transitioning into the next phase of her life, Essie began her motherhood journey, welcoming four children: Sonya, James Jr., Darryl and Mia. She poured her heart into her roles as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and created a legacy that bloomed into an intricately woven family tree.
Essie possessed a natural gift for nurturing others, a trait that defined her professional life. She dedicated 20 years of service to Memorial Hospital where she was a familiar, caring face to colleagues as well as patients. Her work at the hospital was more than just a job; it was an extension of her generous heart and caring nature.
For over 20 years, Essie was a devoted member of New Horizons Outreach Ministry. Her faith was an active one; she didn't just sit in the pews—she served. She was a constant presence as a volunteer, always willing to lend a hand for church services and events. A woman of many talents, Essie made the world more beautiful through her hobbies. She was a master in the kitchen, known for many dishes, especially her spaghetti, Jell-O and punch. She also had a flair for decorating that made every holiday gathering and event feel special for everyone in attendance. Her hands were rarely still, as she spent countless hours crocheting pieces that displayed the inward beauty she possessed. Whether she was creating something with yarn or serving at a church function, she did everything with a vibrant energy that inspired everyone around her.
Essie’s vibrant legacy is carried on by her extensive and loving family. She is survived by her children: Sonya (Jerome) Harris of McDonough, Georgia, James (Monica) Comer Jr. of Anderson, Indiana, Darryl Comer of Ava Maria, Florida and Mia (Coy) Wilson of South Bend, Donta (Tracy) Rogers, Toyia Rogers, Earlonda Rogers, and Keena (Keith) Hughes, all of Kokomo, Indiana; as well as her 15 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren who affectionately called her Naner. Also left to cherish her memory are her siblings, Beverly Harris of Indianapolis, Indiana, Carl Neal of Austin, Texas, Marcia Shorter Mshewa of Beverly Hills, California, and a host of family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Beatrice Neal and Roy Lee Neal Sr.; paternal grandmother Essie Neal; maternal grandparents, Pinkie Guns and Lewis Cook, brothers, Roy Neal Jr., Gerald Neal and Anthony Neal, daughter, Tina Rogers as well as her great-grandson Noah Price and great-granddaughter Sevyn Roy. On January 27, 2026, her daughter, Sonya Harris, also transitioned to rest with her mother in the Lord’s embrace. As we release their hands, we hold tight to their love and will cherish the memories of two beautiful lives that blessed this world with love, kindness, and purpose. We ask that everyone continue to keep us in your prayers.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Essie Lee (Neal) Hughley, please visit our floral store.
Services
Viewing
Saturday
January 31, 2026
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
New Horizon Outreach Ministry
56165 Mayflower Rd
South Bend, IN 46619
Funeral Service
Saturday
January 31, 2026
11:00 AM
New Horizon Outreach Ministry
56165 Mayflower Rd
South Bend, IN 46619
Committal
Saturday
January 31, 2026
10:00 PM
Mishawaka-Fairview Cemetery
1415 N. Main Street
Mishawaka, IN 46545
Added 01/30/2026 0700 GMS
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