Robert “Bob” Donley Hughes

By | September 5, 2017

Robert “Bob” Donley Hughes passed away on September 3, 2017 at Riverside Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Bob was the only son born on June 13, 1933 to Robert and Naomi Donley Hughes.

Upon graduating from Oak Hill High School, Bob joined the United States Air Force in 1951 serving until 1971. Bob then joined the Central Intelligence Agency in 1972 and served until 1980. In 1980 Bob served at Lockheed Air Force Base, Area 51 in Las Vegas until 1990 when he retired. Bob married Lynn Foraker and though divorced later in life – remained close and devoted friends until her passing last year.

In 2013 Bob decided to return to his home state of Ohio to be near family and friends. He moved next door to the Painter family who soon became like his own. He fell completely in love with Kelly and Lacey (and their parents) and their adorable boys: Layne, Tucker, and Vincent Donley (notice Vincent got his Donley name!).

Bob loved sports and was always watching a game on TV – especially Little League baseball – and attended many local games. An avid fisherman he enjoyed many fishing trips with the Painters as well as to shooting ranges.

Bob had grown especially close to cousin, Diane Donley Evans who helped him get settled after moving to Ohio and who continued to check on him weekly and take him to Dr. appointments and shopping. She has been God sent during these last weeks of his illness and multiple hospitalizations. Cousin Kay Carter also grew close to Bob after his return and enjoyed many visits to recall growing up in Lawrence County. The Donley family reunions were important to Bob because it was always a good place to meet those who now lived in faraway places.

Bob is already missed by family and friends more than words can express. Rest well dear cousin/friend.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, September 8th, 2017 from 11am-1pm at the Lewis & Gillum Funeral Home of Oak Hill. Funeral services with military honors will follow at 1pm at the funeral home with Pastor Stan Howard officiating. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association, 5455 N. High Street Columbus, Ohio 43214 or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.lewisgillum.com