"She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future."

Mildred Yvonne Hughes, affectionately known to most as Mimi and to her children as Mum or Ma was born on December 20, 1944, in Boston, Massachusetts to Arthur Lewis Hughes and Gladys Mcilvane Hughes. A true "woman of Boston," she was named after her aunt Mildred, an on-air radio personality. Growing up, she was described as beautiful, fun, and confident. Fearless and bold, she participated in the Drum and Bugle Corp and was a member of the singing group The Mallhuettes with her best friend Joni, making their television debut in the 1950s. Mimi attended Boston Girls High School, after graduating went on to complete a two-year program at Boston Business School. That experience helped shape her entrepreneurial spirit and became a catalyst for her many future endeavors. One of eight siblings, five girls and three boys, she was often referred to as the "favorite aunt," a title earned through her charisma, style, and adventurous personality.

In every sense, Mimi was a matriarch, not only to her immediate family but to a far wider circle. She embodied the values of kinship and connection, taking pride in nurturing personal relationships with her more than 50 nieces and nephews. As a young mother, she prioritized structure, discipline, and exposure for her three children. Mildred's love language may not have been words, but rather her active presence. She poured her wisdom and guidance into her three children, helping them to achieve their goals and building the foundation for their successes. Later in life, she cherished being a devoted and present grandmother. Mimi's life was defined by generosity, laughter, and the countless ways she showed up for others.

Motivated to do more and be the best despite circumstances, Mimi instilled resilience and drive in her children and all those around her. She had a special gift for magnifying her resources to meet the needs of her family and community. Steadfast and organized, she balanced her own pursuits with her dedication to uplifting others. A kinetic spirit with an infectious smile, people were drawn to her, creating a host of "play aunts and uncles" for Dionne, Jay, and Hassan. For over 40 years, she worked at Northeastern University, where her role in the African-American Institute included organizing events, emergency funds, and academic resources for thousands of minority students. She was a pillar of that community, remembered for her ability to create opportunities and her unwavering support. Mimi's impact has been both profound and immeasurable, evident in the outpouring of love and stories shared by those whose lives she touched.

Independent and adventurous, Mimi was ahead of her time. She embraced life as a global citizen, traveling widely and blending her Boston style with the cultures she encountered across countries. In her spare time, she enjoyed aerobics, bike riding, cooking, and skating. Whether hosting students during the holidays, helping a relative in need, or lending a listening ear, she was a catalyst for the success of so many. Mimi was the embodiment of light; a shining star, the personification of impact.

Four years and one week after the transition of her eldest child and only daughter, Mimi's earthly body reunited with the Lord and her best friend Dionne. She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, and two sisters. She leaves to celebrate her legacy her sons Jay (Patricia) Hughes and Hassan (Walkitria) Smith; her grandchildren Jamila Hughes, Jeneshia Hughes, Brittany Furlow, Taj Everett, Stefon Everett, Ella Smith and Garvey Smith; son-in-law Kenny Everett; sisters Rochelle Wornum and Ayaisha Azizi; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, two great-grandchildren, and even one great-great nephew.

"Tho our hearts are risin' in the key that our souls were singin'… Mimi danced in the night, remember, how the stars stole the night away—dancin' in September."