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Lavayne Smith Hughes was born Nov. 12, 1944, in Bogalusa. She was a resident of Hattiesburg, Miss., and a former resident of Pine and Bogalusa. She passed away on May 1, 2020, at Asbury Hospice House in Hattiesburg. She passed after a courageous battle with cancer. She was a 1962 graduate of Pine High School and was an employee of J.C. Penney for 17-1/2 years. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and mother-in-law. She cherished time spent with her family and made many lasting memories.

She was a member of First Baptist Church Oak Grove in Hattiesburg. The church showed love and care for her in many ways during her illness. She appreciated everyone from her church and pastor Brother Bennett and his wife and family.

Lavayne reconnected with cousins and friends in the last few years. She enjoyed visits and phone calls from all. The Smokey Mountains were special to her and she enjoyed vacations in Tennessee with her family.

She is survived by her daughter Courtney Mitchell and her husband Chris, and their son Ben and a son Andy Hughes; stepsons, Michael Hughes and his wife Tonya and their daughters Amanda, Leslie, Kayla; Ricky Hughes also a sister Faye Odom and a number of nieces and nephews.

Lavayne is preceded in death by her parents, Clarence Lavernon and Edna Smith; and a sister, Evelyn Rogers.

Due to the COVID-19 situation, a private graveside service was held at Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery. The services were officiated by Elder Greg Bennett and Elder Doyle Ball on Tuesday, May 5.

Relatives and friends of the family may sign the register book at www.brownmcgehee.com.