Jayden Anna Hughes

Jayden Anna Hughes, 23, passed away on Friday, August 23, 2024, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

A celebration of life service was held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, August 30, at Zion Lutheran Church in Clear Lake, with Pastor Jason Miller officiating. The family greeted friends and family immediately following the service at the church on Friday. 

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the North Iowa Humane Society, in memory of Jayden.

Jayden was born on May 17, 2001, in Ames, to Craig and Andi (Skrukrud) Hughes. She grew up in Garner, attending Garner Hayfield Ventura Community Schools, where she graduated with the class of 2019. During her school years, Jayden was an active participant in volleyball, track and field, and softball. She especially enjoyed softball, where she had the opportunity to argue and bicker with her sister, Kylie, showing her competitive and fierce nature. Known for her authenticity and honesty, Jayden was a true

friend. She was recognized for her feisty spirit, intelligence, and great sense of humor.

Jayden continued her education at Des Moines Area Community College and later earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from Grandview University. She worked as a legal assistant for law firms in the Ankeny area. Jayden was dedicated and passionate and having recently completed the LSATs, was actively researching various law schools in preparation for her future in law.

If Jayden had the opportunity, she would spend her time outdoors. She enjoyed fishing, water skiing, and boating—activities that reflected her love for being near the water. She enjoyed family trips to Mexico as a time to soak up the sun, walk on the beach, dive into a good book, and debate over card games with her family.

As many know, Jayden was a magnet for animals, of any kind. Growing up, dogs were a constant part of her life and as soon as she could, she adopted her first cat, Millie. Eventually, she adopted Margot, to keep Millie company. Just like the animals, children flocked to Jayden’s presence. She had a natural affinity for both, which shone through in her relationships. She was an advocate for her friends and always stood up for others. Jayden’s vibrant spirit, love for life, and unwavering support for those who needed her will be deeply missed.

Left to cherish Jayden’s memories are her parents Craig and Andi (Skrukrud) Hughes and her sister, Kylie, of Clear Lake; grandparents Arnie and Annette Skrukrud; aunts and uncles: Lisa (Dean) Shaffer, Jeff (Jana) Hughes, Molly (Art) Hanford, Scott Hughes, and Brad Hughes. Cousins: Jordyn and Logan Shaffer, Tyler (Kelly) Olson, Shelby (Jens) Berggren, Nicole (Rafa) Cruz, Claire Ellie Hughes, Kennedy Olson, Leona, Cecilia, Rory, and Brooks Berggren, and Leighton and London Cruz.

Jayden is preceded in death by her grandparents Ed and Joyce Hughes.

Ward Van Slyke is in charge of arrangements.