Obituary of Kenny Douglas Hughes

Kenny D. Hughes, Pastor of Lena Vista Baptist Church in Auburndale died peacefully on Monday, May 8th, 2023 at the age of 72 in Lakeland, Florida. Kenny is survived by the love of his life wife of 53 years, Dianne Mefford Hughes; his sons Mark (Rachel) and Brian (Daniela) and his four grandsons Colton, Clayton, Braxton and Brody. He is preceded in death by his father, Robert E. Hughes, and his mother Elene Gouge Hughes. Kenny was born in Havre de Grace, Maryland on March 20th, 1951 and moved to Auburndale at age 5. He was a graduate of Auburndale High School in 1969 and Palm Beach Atlantic University in 1974 with a degree in Theology. Kenny loved to bass fish and it was one of his main hobbies throughout his life. He also loved classic cars, hot rods, NASCAR racing, NHRA drag racing and bowling. Many of his closest friendships were founded around these hobbies. Of all the hobbies and things he enjoyed in life his favorite thing to do was to share Jesus Christ with people. From his late teens to his death he has been a youth pastor, Sunday school teacher, interim pastor, and full time pastor, often filling several of those roles simultaneously. Not to mention a mentor, father figure, coach, and advisor to thousands of people over his lifetime. He would share his faith, knowledge, wisdom, huge heart and unique humor in an instant if he felt someone needed it. He made an enormous impact on many lives and the fruits of his ministry are spread all across the country he loved. Kenny will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and congregation(s). There are few men that have walked this earth that have cast such a Godly shadow and have had such an impact on so many lives. He believed that the two dates on your headstone were not important, but rather what you did with the dash in between. In lieu of flowers the family request’s donations to; Lena Vista Baptist Church, 213 Florida Drive, Auburndale, FL. 33823. A celebration of Pastor Kenny’s life will be held 1pm Monday, May 15^th at Lakes Church – Go Center, 1010 East Memorial Blvd., Lakeland, FL. 33801with a gathering of family & friends beginning at 12 noon at the church. Lunch will follow at Lena Vista Baptist Church 3pm.