Patricia Jean Tooze Hughes

It is with profound sadness that we announce: Patricia Jean Tooze Hughes, 81, of Falls Church, Virginia, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. Born on September 13, 1944, and raised in Brooklyn, Patricia carried her New York strength, warmth, and unmistakable spirit with her throughout her life. She spent most of her life in Louisiana, where she built her home, raised her family, and formed lifelong friendships, before moving to Falls Church in 2021 to be closer to loved ones. 

“Pat” dedicated 45 years of service as a bartender at the New Orleans International Airport, working for Delaware North. She became a familiar and welcoming presence to travelers and coworkers alike. Known for her quick wit, kind heart, and easy conversation, she had a special gift for making everyone feel at home. For Pat, her work was more than a job; it was a place where she built lasting relationships and touched countless lives. 

She enjoyed spending time with her family and sharing everyday moments, especially watching the birds from her window with her great-grandchild every morning. Patricia, affectionately known to many as “Ma”, will be remembered for her strength, kindness, humor, and the steady care she gave so freely. Her presence filled every room, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. 

Patricia is survived by her six children; Gary Ford (Melanie), Robert Hughes, John Hughes (Buya), Diane Guerra (Mark), Thomas Hughes (Paula), Christina Ford (Benjamin); grandchildren, Brandon Ford, Tricia Heyse (Brian), Matthew Guerra (Kurstin), Erin Ford (Dalton), Brandi Ford, Preston Hughes, William Hughes, Theodore Hughes, Everett Hughes, and Jerald "Manny" Hughes; and great-grandchildren; Johnnie, Madalyn, and Violet. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Helen Case Tooze, and her siblings Edward Tooze, Helen Tooze, Roger Tooze, and John Tooze. 

Family and friends are invited to attend the visitation on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home - Ponchatoula, 100 W. Magnolia St., Ponchatoula, Louisiana 70454, from 9:00 AM until the funeral service begins at 11:00 AM. 

Interment will follow in Saint Joseph’s Abbey Cemetery in St. Benedict, Louisiana. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home.