James Hughes

          On July 7 th , James Hughes, Sr., gently took his Savior’s hand. He was born on September 29 th , 1937, to his late parents, Noah, and Florence Hughes, in Purcellville, Virginia.

          Most people knew him as “Jim Hughes or “Papa Hughes.” He was a loving, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. He graduated from Douglas High School in Leesburg, Virginia. Following graduation, he migrated to Montclair, New Jersey, for more opportunities. He landed a job at Nabisco and worked there for many years. After leaving Nabisco, he became a masonry entrepreneur untilhis retirement in 2020. He could build and repair almost anything and was just a phone call away. He was Johnny on the spot. No matter what he was doing, he always took the time to provide his services. Jim loved the Montclair community. He enjoyed attending community events such as the Montclair African Heritage Parade, the Montclair Class Reunions, and other festivals. He especially enjoyed the food at these functions. He befriended so many people that someone would say, “I Know Jim Hughes” whenever you mentioned his name. He always had a smile on his face and loved meeting people. He had a passion for engaging in many conversations ranging from politics to relationships.

         James met and married Clarice Burwell, and out of this union, two children were born, James Hughes Jr. and Monica Denice Hughes. He later married June Mason in 1983 and acquired a bonus daughter, Shelley Collins- Baskerville. Jim and June enjoyed close to 30 years of love and happiness.

          Those who knew Jim knew he was spiritually beautiful. An individual who gave unconditionally. He was humble and believed one of our primary purposes was to help each other. He always pleased others; he never wanted the limelight on him. Jim enjoyed traveling and took great pleasure and honor in entertaining. He and June hosted many, many Thanksgiving dinners, and cookouts. He also enjoyed being a grandad and had a special relationship with Alexander, Sydney, and Jayda.

          Jim accepted Christ early and was a New Hope Baptist Church, East Orange, New Jersey member. He served on the food pantry committee. He was predeceased by his parents, Noah and Florence Hughes, his loving wife, June Hughes, his sister, Barbara Garrett, and brothers: Noah Hughes and Harrison Colbert. Left to cherish his beautiful spirit and loving memories are his Devoted children: James Hughes Jr. (Bridgette), Monica Denice Hughes (Henry) and Shelley Collins-Baskerville (Paul), Sisters: Evelyn McGruder, DeloresArnold (Marcellus) and Roberta Ann Allen, Sister-in-Law: Sandra Durrell (Thomas), Grandchildren: Alexander Collins (Jasmine), Sydney Collins (Larry), and Jayda Hughes. Devoted Friends: Eleanor & Merlin Donatto and Velma Johnson and a host of nephews, nieces, relatives, and many friends.

          He will be genuinely missed and live in our hearts forever.

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