Elaine A Hughes, 76, of Ashland, passed away on Monday May 7th, 2018 surrounded by family after a brief illness. Elaine was born in Plymouth, NH on April 21st, 1942; the daughter of Alma Avery. She was raised and educated in Ashland, a graduate of Ashland High School. Elaine was married to John C Hughes, on August 12th, 1967. Prior to John's passing in November they had celebrated their 50th wedding Anniversary. Elaine was employed by The Ashland Paper Mill, White Mountain Golf Course, The New Hampton School, Sheppard Management, Coldwell Banker Old Mill Properties, and had 3 businesses of her own. Sugarbush Ceramics which she ran from her home in the late 70's -early 80's, Village Crafts from 1985-1991, and Elaine Hughes Realty Group since 2005. A lifelong resident of Ashland, Elaine served as the Ashland tax collector, a Girl Scout leader, an Ashland Angels leader, on the beautification committee, the housing standards board, and as a member of the Ashland Operation Santa Claus committee. Elaine enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, time in her garden, many different crafts such as painting, knitting, ceramics, chair caning, lampshade making and rug braiding. Elaine is predeceased by her husband of 50 years, John Hughes, and her mother Alma Avery. She is survived by 6 children: Kendall "KB" Hughes and wife Jennifer of Ashland, Sue Reckmeyer and husband Chris of New Port Richey, Florida, Marika “Rikki” Agnelli, of Newmarket, Kathy Cookson and husband Timothy of Morrisville, Vermont, Deb Perdue and husband Jacob of Ashland, Annie Cagle and husband Jeff of Port Allen, Louisiana; nine grandsons and five granddaughters; one sister, Beth Johnstone and husband Chris of Ashland, brother-in-law, Nathan Hughes and wife Donna of Tamworth; and two sister-in-laws, Antoinette Hughes of Ashland, Barbara Hughes of Louisville, Kentucky and many nieces and nephews. Per her wishes there will be no calling hours or funeral. A celebration of life will occur at a later time. Donations may be made to Operation Santa Claus, PO Box 856, Ashland, NH 03217. Dupuis Funeral Home in Ashland is handling the arrangements. For more information go to www.dupuisfuneralhome.com