Obituaries

Karen Hugus, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully after a courageous six-year battle with cancer. She was 80.

Born in 1945 in Brooklyn, New York, Karen was known throughout her life for her immense generosity, quick wit, and unwavering love for her family and friends. She met the love of her life, Paul Hugus, in Freehold, New Jersey, and the two were married in 1964, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey of love and partnership.

Together, Karen and Paul raised three children: Erik Hugus, Kristi Hugus Welch, and Todd Hugus. A devoted mother, Karen poured her heart into her family, always putting others before herself. She was the heart of the home nurturing, strong, and endlessly supportive Karen was preceded in death by her beloved son, Todd, who passed away in 2009; a loss she bore with strength and grace.

Despite life's challenges, Karen's vibrant spirit never dimmed. She had the rare gift of lighting up any room she entered. With a sharp sense of humor and a natural ability to make others feel seen and loved, Karen could lift your spirits with a single joke or a heartfelt hug.

She was an active and devoted member of the United Methodist Church, where she led youth groups and organized Mother's Day Out programs with enthusiasm and care. Alongside her husband, Paul, she was the guiding force behind Anderson Realty Capital Corp (their business). She was his greatest supporter, encourager and steadfast partner in every endeavor.

To know Karen was to be welcomed with open arms and, more often than not, a gift. She had a true passion for shopping; not for herself, but for others. Giving brought her immense joy, and her generosity was matched only by the love she gave so freely.

Her greatest pride and joy were her three grandchildren, who brought boundless happiness into her life. She cherished every moment with them, creating memories filled with love, laughter, and warmth.

Karen passed with the same grace and peace with which she lived, surrounded by love, and having made sure to say goodbye to those closest to her.

She leaves behind her loving husband of 61 years, Paul; her son Erik Hugus; her daughter Kristi Hugus Welch; her cherished grandchildren, Taylor, Hailey and Richard Welch, and countless family members and friends who were touched by her life.

Karen Hugus will be remembered always for her big heart, boundless love, and the laughter she brought to everyone around her. She was, and will always be, a true model of love, generosity, and humor.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 23rd, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Thompson Memorial Home, 310 Broad Street, Red Bank, New Jersey 07701. Funeral services will take place on Friday, October 24th, at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Fair View Cemetery, Middletown, NJ. A Celebration of Life reception will be held after at The Molly Pitcher Inn, 88 Riverside Avenue, Red Bank, New Jersey. All are welcome to attend and honor her memory.