Orlando, Florida, passed away peacefully, at his home, on November
15, 2018. Russell was 93. Russell was born to Edith and Russell S.
Hughes on August 19, 1925. Russell attended the University of Florida
and was an active member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. Russell
was drafted to serve in World War II. He was inducted into the Army
January 4, 1944. Russell became a POW when his unit was captured
by the Germans on November 29, 1944. He was held as a prisoner
until liberated by the Russians on May 1, 1945. After his captivity, he
returned home to Orlando and joined the family business until he retired
at the age of 70.
In 1956, Russell V. Hughes married his beloved wife, Phyllis Meredith Flake. Together they
traveled the world with their friends making many fond memories and stories of their
adventures. Russell was a member of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, The University Club and
the Country Club of Orlando. In his younger years, Russell loved bowling, hunting and fishing.
In his later years, Tuesday’s were reserved for his peers at the University Club. Russell could
be heard telling jokes, giving a history lesson of the war, world events, or the way Orlando “use
to be”. Russell cheered for the University of Florida Gators and was never without his Blue and
Orange colors on Gator Game Days. He was a proud Bull Gator.
His parents, Mrs. Edith Hughes and Mr. Russell S. Hughes, along with his brother, Richard
Hughes his sister Nancy Hughes and his beloved wife of 61 years, Phyllis F. Hughes
predeceased Russell. He is survived by his two cherished sons, Spencer and Bradley Hughes,
two adored daughters-in-law, Dee Dee and Amy Hughes, and two treasured grandchildren,
McKinsey and Garrett Hughes. Russell was known throughout the Orlando community as a
loving, generous, and kind man.
Russell will be remembered for many things: his quick wit, twinkling eyes, generosity and
confidence. While Russell was a quiet man in nature, his devotion to church and God was
always in his heart. Russell always made you feel welcome, loved, and a part of his family.
Russell was loved by many. His memory will long live on.
Our family is grateful for the kindness and prayers that have been extended to us. Please
continue to pray for our peace and healing. We would like to thank all our wonderful caregivers
for their devotion and care of Russell. May God Bless You Greatly!
A celebration of Russell's life will be held on Tuesday, December 11th at 11:00 am at Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2498 North Westmoreland Drive, Orlando, FL 32804.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2499 N.
Westmoreland Drive, Orlando, FL 32804.
