Gary A Hughes

Gary Allen Hughes, 78, of Bybee, Tennessee passed away at home on Saturday, February, 13, 2016 after an extended illness. Born in Laurens, South Carolina, on the August 30, 1937, to Henry and Dovie (née Norwood) Hughes, Gary was surrendered as a toddler to Connie Maxwell's Children's Home in 1939, where he lived until early adolescence. After leaving the orphanage in 1949, Gary found his way to Newport, Tennessee where he was unofficially adopted by his maternal uncle and aunt, John Rueben, Jr. and Desmon Norwood of Bat Harbor. Gary, also known as "Pinky" in his younger days, is predeceased by his wife of 43 years, Margaret Rhea Hensley, whom he married on July 23, 1967. Together they provided a nurturing home where hard work and integrity were emphasized and modeled for their children. Gary supported his daughter and son in all of their interests and educational pursuits, which led to his serving as Boy Scout leader, baseball coach, sports umpire, and volunteer bus driver. He also served as a trustee at Bruner's Grove United Methodist Church and was a generous benefactor for several local charities and organizations. Gary is also predeceased by his brother, Franklin Delano Hughes; his sister, Jean Hughes; and brother, Dennis Norwood. Left to mourn his passing include his son, Allen Hughes of Bybee; daughter, Dr. Lucinda "Cindy" (Rick) Vassar of Newport; sole grandchild, James Dylan Walker of Morristown; brother, Michael Norwood of Newport; and sister Pat Norwood Purkey of Newport; special niece and nephew, Lisa and John Rice of Bybee; and many other beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Gary, a veteran of the U.S. Army, served as a team leader and shift supervisor on the management team at the Memphis division of Sonoco, a Fortune 500 corporation, and retired after 32 years of faithful and dedicated service. Prior to Sonoco, he worked for Boise Cascade and Rockford Can Company. Upon retirement, Gary and his wife Margaret returned to Cocke County and made their home in the Bybee area. Graveside services will be held at a later date at Grooms Cemetery in Hartford. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to the charity or church of your choice. Family and friends may sign the guest register on line at: www.manesfunerahome.com. Arrangements by Manes Funeral Home.

Gary A Hughes

August 30, 1937 - February 13, 2016