Mary Ellen (Sneed) Adkins-Hughes

Mary Ellen (Sneed) Adkins-Hughes, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2025, in Charleston, West Virginia, at the age of 76, with her loving family by her side. Born on April 2, 1949, in Oak Hill, West Virginia, Mary Ellen was the daughter of Paul and Margie Sneed. She graduated from Collins High School in 1967 and went on to dedicate her life to both public service and her community. A proud civil servant registered with the State of West Virginia; Mary Ellen worked for the West Virginia Department of Highways in the Legal Division. Her career also included positions as a legal secretary at the law firms Goodwin & Goodwin and Marvin Masters. Later, she served as a secretary for Kanawha County Schools for an impressive 30 years. Mary Ellen’s professional accomplishments were only part of her story. She was a woman known for her warmth, humor, and boundless generosity. With a personality that could light up any room, she never met a stranger. Her gift of gab and genuine charm turned acquaintances into lifelong friends. Among those closest to her were her beloved “YA-YA’s,” a tight-knit circle of dear friends whose bond spanned decades. She was a devoted mother to Beth Given, Ben Adkins (David), and Kelly Adkins (her youngest who stood vigil by her side living with her and daily caretaker the last few years) a cherished grandmother to Lauren and Garrett Given. She also held a special place in her heart for Gene, her ex-husband and dear friend. Her extended family of close friends brought joy and comfort throughout her life. Mary Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Margie Sneed, and by her husband Charles "Chuck" Hughes. Mary Ellen's home was always open—her kitchen often filled with the comforting aromas of homemade soups, spaghetti, or chicken and dumplings. Many still fondly recall receiving meals in mason jars labeled MEA or MEH—jars she jokingly insisted must be returned if one hoped for more. Hosting gatherings brought her immense joy; she loved nothing more than bringing people together around food, laughter, and shared stories. Her passions were many: she loved to cook and entertain; she was an avid reader who treasured her books; she enjoyed playing cards and board games; and she had a particular fondness for crossword puzzles. Known affectionately as the “jitterbug queen,” Mary Ellen could light up any dance floor with her moves. Through every season of life—joyful or difficult—Mary Ellen carried herself with compassion, resilience, faith, and humor. Even during times of grief or pain, she remained selfless and strong, always thinking of others before herself. Her ability to laugh at life’s challenges made her a force to be reckoned with—and a source of strength for those around her. Mary Ellen held close the memories of her first family back home in Oak Hill and spoke often of the cousins and relatives spread across the country who helped shape who she was. Her love for them endured throughout her life. One of Mary Ellen’s final wishes was that those who loved her not cry for her but instead remember something funny about her—and find peace. She urged everyone to be gentle with themselves and to forgive freely. That spirit of kindness defined how she lived—and how she left this world: full of love, grace, and an undying heart of gold. A celebration of Mary Ellen’s life will be held from 4 to 6:00 p.m., Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Nichols Bartlett Funeral Home, St. Albans, WV. The family encourages anyone who would like to share a memory of our mother, to bring that with them or send an email to:bgiven45@gmail.com or we will also be allowing anyone who feels they want to speak be free to do so at the end of the service. You may visit Mary Ellen’s tribute page at BartlettNichols.com to share memories and condolences with the family. Bartlett-Nichols Funeral Home, locally owned and located 409 Sixth Ave., St. Albans, WV is honored to serve the Adkins-Hughes family.

Mary Ellen (Sneed) Adkins-Hughes

April 2, 1949 - June 17, 2025