Ronnie L. Hughes, age 69, passed from this life on Feb. 18, 2018 at OSU Medical Center-James Cancer Center surrounded by his loving family. He was born to the late James and Grace (Rollins) Hughes on June 13, 1948 in Oak Hill, Ohio.
He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Janice K. (Woods) Hughes of Oak Hill, Ohio; daughter, Angie (Russ) Bachtel of Jackson, Ohio; and sons, Ronnie L. (Crystal) Hughes, Jr. of Oak Hill, Ohio and Tim (Angela) Hughes of Jackson, Ohio. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Jessica Bachtel, Zachary Hughes, Anthony Hughes, and Tyler Evans. His grandchildren were the lights of his life, and he loved spending time with them.
In addition, he is also survived by brothers, Jasper Hughes and Larry Hughes both of Oak Hill, Ohio; sister, Joan Baisden of Jackson, Ohio; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws who all considered him a brother.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers: Bill, Brinton, Paul, and Terry Hughes; and sisters, Virginia Stroth and Shirley Phillips.
Ronnie served in the U.S. Navy from 1967 until 1975, at which time he returned home to his family and spent most of his working life at the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Piketon, Ohio. He was a member of the DAV and American Legion Post#261, and until his last illness, was active in honoring fellow veterans in the honor guard at their burials. Some of his most fond memories were the various horseshoe pitching games and tournaments he attended, and his bowling games and all the good friends he had in both. Some of his best times were spent either outside or in his garage working on a car, lawnmower, or anything mechanical. You could always find his buddy and helper, Anthony tagging along right behind him.
“Ronnie had the biggest heart of anyone we ever knew and was always ready with help if you needed it. He often had a story to tell, that usually ended with his distinctive laugh. We love you, Ronnie, and we’ll miss you more than we can say.”
Per Ronnie’s request, there will be no funeral services held and his body will be cremated. Arrangements are under the direction of the Lewis & Gillum Funeral Home of Oak Hill. Online condolences may be sent to www.lewisgillumfh.com