Sterling Emmett Hughes, a distinguished artist, dedicated rancher, and devoted family man, of rural Cotesfield, Nebraska passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026, at the Country House Residence in Grand Island, Nebraska, at the age of 87.

Born on April 14, 1939, on the family ranch north of Burwell, Nebraska, Sterling was the son of Walter and Ruth (Hamilton) Hughes. His early years were spent between Nebraska and Wyoming before the family established their home on a ranch northwest of Greeley, Nebraska.

Sterling received his education at Greeley Public School and graduated from Greeley High School in 1958. He furthered his passion for the arts by attending art school in Omaha.

On July 8, 1961, Sterling married Patricia “Pat” Gray at Boys Town in Omaha, Nebraska. Their union spanned nearly five decades, during which they built their life first in the Omaha and Elkhorn areas and later settled on a farm southeast of Scotia in 1969. There, Sterling cultivated a rich life grounded in farming, ranching, sheep shearing, and construction work. His deep affection for cattle, particularly dairy cows, remained a lifelong passion.

An acclaimed wood sculptor, Sterling, showcased his artwork at venues such as the Stuhr Museum in Grand Island and various regional exhibitions. His artistic achievements earned him numerous honors, and his wood pieces found homes across the United States, Canada, and South America. Sterling was an avid reader with a vast personal library. He enjoyed gardening, visiting with others, and watching western films.

He was a member of the Artissimos Art Club and past member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church of Scotia.

Survivors include his children, son, Kevin Hughes of Greeley; three daughters, Kim Mackey of David City (Rich Mackey of Kuwait), Leah and Wayne Crome of Greeley and Alisha Hughes of Cotesfield; thirteen grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; and two sisters, Jean Zauha of Papillion and Mary Gail Lopez of Madison.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 49 years, Pat; two sons, Keith and Brendan Hughes; daughter-in-law, Jean (Mrs. Kevin) Hughes; two brothers, Frank and Ora Hughes and two sisters, Patricia Buckner and Merna Bisgaard.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Greeley, Nebraska. Father Lawrence Vadakkan and Deacon Paul Nordhues will be the Mass Celebrants. Interment will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery. 

Visitation will be held on Friday at the church from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. 

Memorials are suggested to the Family’s Choice.