Linda Lifsey Hughes, a radiant force of love, creativity, and community, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on December 3, 2024.  She was 65. Known to many as "Mama Linda," she was a connector of hearts, a builder of bridges, and an inspirer of dreams. She leaves behind a legacy of joy, kindness, and unwavering faith.

Born in Harlem, New York City, on March 30, 1959, Linda's life was a symphony of artistic and academic passions. From her early years in the Ralph J. Rangel Apartments, her talent and passion shone brightly. A graduate of Manhattan Country Day School and the prestigious Music & Art High School, she cultivated a love for the arts and the natural world. Linda's talents as a flutist carried her to Carnegie Hall as a youth soloist, to the stage with jazz great Hubert Laws, and to the orchestral pits of Broadway.

Her life was enriched by countless pursuits.  A semi-professional tennis player, a photographer of sunrises, a mindful gardener, and a devoted lover of cuisine, Linda embraced the fullness of life with curiosity and intention. She cherished morning walks along Ocean Avenue in Martha's Vineyard, striking up conversations with yoga enthusiasts and capturing the brilliance of dawn with her camera. These moments of connection and appreciation of beauty reflected the essence of her being.

In 1985, Linda relocated to Boston, where she began a career in higher education at MIT and Wellesley College. She later found her true calling in education and diversity work at The Chestnut Hill School and Walnut Hill School for the Arts.  Linda's leadership roles—from music director and founder of the Chestnut Hill School for Music, to inaugural Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging at Walnut Hill — allowed her to create spaces where every individual felt valued and heard. Through her efforts, she introduced restorative practices, mentored countless students and colleagues, and brought the arts to life in meaningful ways.

Linda's ability to nurture connections extended beyond her professional life. She was the heartbeat of her family, cherishing her roles as wife, mother, aunt, sister, and godmother.  Married for 35 years to Bill Hughes, her unwavering love and partnership with him were a source of strength and inspiration. Together, they raised two remarkable daughters, Sara and Alyson, who were the light of Linda's life.

Her faith in Christ was her foundation. Even as she faced the challenges of her illness, Linda remained steadfast, asking how her journey could inspire and bless others. She taught those around her to embrace life fully, to listen intentionally, and to find beauty even in difficult moments. Her testimony of abiding faith and grace continues to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her.

Linda loved deeply and lived richly.  She was a renaissance woman who sang gospel and jazz, skied the slopes of Attitash and Park City, and traveled to places like Kaua'i and Grand Cayman to snorkel and explore. She delighted in meaningful conversations, whether about world events or local concerns, and shared her knowledge and networks generously. Through her work as a diversity consultant, speaker, and facilitator, she empowered individuals and communities to embrace inclusivity and understanding.

Linda is survived by her beloved husband, Bill; her cherished daughters, Sara and Alyson; her devoted sister Raven Mills and brother-in-law Hampton Mills; nieces and nephews; godchildren; and an extended network of family and friends who were touched by her warmth and wisdom. She now joins her Savior, whom she trusted wholeheartedly, and continues to inspire through the lives she enriched.

Linda taught us all to see beauty, to listen with intention, and to live with purpose. Her light will forever illuminate the path for those who follow.

Learn more and contribute to Linda's Legacy at the Walnut Hill School for the Arts

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Linda Lifsey Hughes, please visit our Tree Store.