Douglas- Robert Thomas Hughes, 76, passed away on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at Rhode Island Hospital after being stricken ill. He led a life filled with dedication to his family, career, and community.
Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Kathleen (Dutra) Hughes; his sons, Andrew Hughes and his wife Meghan of Marshfield, MA, and Douglas Hughes and his wife Sonya of London, England; his daughter, Samantha Dutra-Rowe and her husband Barry of W. Greenwich, RI ; his sister Ruthie McGee and husband Peter of Bedford, NH; his step-sister Becky Phillips and her husband Joe of Camden, IN; his cherished grandchildren, Josh, Shelby, Daniel, Liliana and Lincoln, and his adored great-grandchildren, Leo, Jaxon, and Khloe. He was predeceased by his step mother June (Columb) Hughes.
Born in Middletown, CT on November 21, 1947, Robert was the son of the late Hubert W. and Julie (Bonvino) Hughes and grew up in Middletown. Robert earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Northeastern University and an MBA from Boston University. His professional career spanned over four decades as a Facilities Engineer, with significant contributions to companies such as Honeywell, American Tourister, A.T. Cross, Kenyon Industries, and Teleflex Incorporated. In addition, Robert was the co-founder of EDM Consulting. His service extended to his country, where he served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1965 to 1976 as a Field Artillery Battery Commander.
Known as a coaching legend in Foxboro Youth Baseball, Robert devoted much of his life to mentoring young athletes. His commitment to community service was evident through his role as a volunteer tutor for adult literacy from 1995 until his passing. Robert was a man of great faith and an active member of St. Denis Church in Douglas, where he was a member of their finance committee, worked as a greeter, lector, eucharistic minister and was a chairman of Partners in Charity for the diocese.
In his leisure time, Robert enjoyed hunting and was a member of the Thompson Rod and Gun Club. He was a great dancer and over the years, went country dancing and clogging with his wife, and even taught classes. He also liked golfing and was a member of the Gloucester Country Club, where he played on a men’s league and a couples’ league with Kathie., He was a lifelong, devoted fan of the New York Yankees and New York Giants and played in a fantasy football league, a testament to his enduring love for sports. Additionally, Robert and Kathleen loved traveling the world together, and he was an avid model ship builder, a hobby that reflected his meticulous nature and passion for craftsmanship. Robert's legacy of love, dedication, and service will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him. His contributions to his family, profession, and community leave an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
Robert’s funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, June 18th in St. Denis Church, 26 Manchaug St., Douglas at 11 AM. Calling hours at Jackman Funeral Home, 7 Mechanic St., Douglas will be held on Monday, June 17th from 5-7 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Denis Church, 23 Manchaug St., Douglas, MA 01516. To leave a condolence message for his family please visit: www.Jackmanfuneralhomes.com
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