Jessica Díon Hughes

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust. Psalms 91:1-2

Jessica Di’on Hughes, the youngest child and only daughter of Denise L. Gauthier and baby girl of Jessie Hughes, Sr., was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on June 22, 1988, and departed this life on Monday, November 3, 2025 at 11:13 a.m.

Jessica Di’on Hughes, was affectionately known by her close loved ones’ and family as “Pooh”. Her life can be encapsulated by 5 F’s - Family, Friends, Fashion, Food & Fun. Jessica loved to shop, look fabulous, pamper herself and relax. She also loved a great pedicure, manicures, hair stylist…all in beauty.

Oh to be a 504 girl, our Jessica loved New Orleans and all the unique flair, musical history, ancestry and traditions it brings. “Pooh” truly missed her friends, family and New Orleans after moving away. Jessica was blessed to have many family members that loved and cherished her dearly -she shared a special relationship with her brother and very close ties with other family, leading from Mississippi, Slidell, New Orleans, Alexandria, Texas and back to Baton Rouge. The love she showed each of them was over the top.

Jessica was baptized at a young age at Union Bethel AME Church in New Orleans, LA, where she attended services with her grandfather Leonard as a child. She completed her primary education in Orleans Parish, attending St. Mary’s Academy until relocating to Baton Rouge due to Hurricane Katrina. Jessica finished her senior year and graduated from Broadmoor High School in Baton Rouge in 2006. She continued her education at Dillard University in New Orleans and Baton Rouge Community College. Additionally, Jessica received customer service and management training in the telecommunications field.

Jessica Di’on Hughes was a gentle, kind, soft-spoken and caring person who always put others first. Throughout her brief illness, she remained faithful and positive, often saying "positive vibes and no complaints." Her compassion extended to everyone around her, especially caregivers. Jessica was truly our champion—our “Pooh” until the end.

To cherish many fond memories, she leaves with very heavy heart a devoted mother, Denise L. Gauthier, a caring brother Sebastian A. Gauthier, a niece, Santana Gauthier, aunt Paulette G. Bailey-Wilson (Woodrow J.), special cousin MaKetria Hughes, bonus Siblings, brothers Jermain and Peter Trotter, Jesse Hughes, Jr ., and one sister, Trina Trotter, grandmother, Mae Hughes, Uncle, Bishop Frankie Hughes (Carol), and many Gauthier cousins, many Hughes cousins, Clark cousins - extended family, close friends and two godchildren, Janyah Evans and Jamiya Chambers.

Jessica’s infectious and radiant smile could light up the darkest of days, leaving an unforgettable mark on everyone she met. She found joy in simple pleasures—whether it was sharing a delicious meal with loved ones, enjoying all the rhythms of her favorite New Orleans tunes, or lending a listening ear to friends in need. Her generous spirit and unwavering loyalty were the foundation of countless cherished relationships that continue to inspire those she leaves behind.

She is preceded in death by her father Jessie Hughes, Sr., grandparents Leonard and Mary Gauthier, aunt Linda Gauthier and brother Jesse Trotter.

A celebration of Jessica's life will be held in loving remembrance by her family and friends. The service will honor the vibrant spirit she brought into every room and the warmth she shared with all who knew and loved her. All are invited to gather as we pay tribute to her legacy and cherish the many joyful memories she leaves behind.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Service at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Highway in Baton Rouge. A Visitation will be held at the funeral home beginning at 9:00 a.m.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com