Eugene “Gene” Edward Hughes, 81, went to his heavenly home on January 25, 2021. He was welcomed by his parents, two precious children, countless family members, several of his friends and golfing buddies, and most importantly His Lord and Savior.
Gene was born to the late R.E. and Evelyn Hughes, a farmer and a homemaker, in Stamford, TX on September 21, 1939. He grew up in Avoca, TX along with his brother Raymond Allen, and Theresa Ann. He and his siblings grew up attending Avoca Baptist Church, and it was there that Gene heard and received the good news of the Gospel.
Gene loved basketball, along with his brother and went on to play basketball at Cisco Junior College, where he graduated with his Associates in Biology. He spent some time in the Air Force after college before moving to Lake Isabella, California in 1965 to take a job with Automatic Electric.
In 1967, Gene met JoAnn Thomas, a telephone operator in Bishop, California who would become his lifelong sweetheart and dearest companion for almost 54 years. They married on May 28, 1967 in Lake Tahoe, Nevada and settled down in Bishop California. Gene’s love of telephony and his career of 33 years began with California Interstate Telephone which became Contel Telephone, and finally through many mergers became Verizon. On Feb 1, 1977 they welcomed their daughter, Stephanie Ann and shortly after moved to Granbury, Texas. Gene continued to work for Verizon until he retired in 1995 with 33 years of service. After retirement Gene continued as a contractor with ADC-Datel and then taking various jobs in his line of work. In 2011, he began helping his daughter and son-in-law as the manager of Blue Lion Storage. In 2009, his grandson, Parker Ellis was born, followed in 2012 by Carson Michael, and in 2015 by Cole Isaiah. Gene has spent his days since retirement, along with JoAnn, happily in the company of his grandsons and family. He was blessed with a loving family who adores him.
Gene was a people lover at heart. He was outgoing and witty, full of love and care for those in need. He had truly never met a stranger. Whether it was his friends from his school days, his golfing buddies, or the guys he had breakfast with each week, he was a faithful and true friend. He is dearly missed by his loved ones, who, though hurting from such an incredible loss, celebrate the fact that he is finally home with his Heavenly Father.
Gene is survived by his wife, JoAnn; his daughter Stephanie and husband Mike Kirk. Grandsons, Turner, Walker, Parker, Carson, and Cole. Brother, Raymond Hughes and Sister Theresa Baucum. He is preceded in death by his parents; and his children, Crystal Ann and Brenton Wesley.
Gene’s final resting place will be at Acton Cemetery in Granbury, Texas. A celebration of life will be held at a later time due to the current health climate. A website has been setup in Gene’s honor where prayers, condolences, and memories will be shared. Donations can be made from the site to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in lieu of flowers. Visit https://genehughesmemorial.godaddysites.com
