Billy "Bill" M. Hughes

Bill was born in Hodge, Louisiana to the late T.M. and Mildred Hughes. In high school he excelled in football, basketball, baseball and track, lettering in each. After High School he proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1955-1959 as a Air Search and Rescue Crew member. He received medals for Good Conduct, NATO Security Force, National Defense Service and a Navy Unit Commendation.

Bill went on to receive a Bachelors Degree in Business administration from Louisiana Tech and fell into the career of Retail. This career eventually led him to a position as Import Director with Variety Wholesalers, which was a dream job for someone who loved to shop and to travel.

Upon his return from the Navy, Bill married his precious Anne in November of 1959. They were blessed with nearly 60 years of marriage. In that time they enjoyed traveling the world together. They especially loved their many cruises. Bill was devoted to his Anne and demonstrated that love by caring for her unselfishly as Parkinson’s Disease affected the last years of her life. God used this difficult time to grow him as he served faithfully.

Bill and Anne raised 3 children together. Kim deBernard (& husband Ernie) of Oklahoma City, OK, Steve Hughes (& wife Michelle) of Salisbury, NC and Denise Raynor (& husband Chris) of Raleigh, NC. Bill loved each deeply and expressed great gratitude & pride in the good people they had become. Bill relished his role as “Pappy” to his grandchildren Caitlin Martin (& husband Jake), Blake deBernard (& wife Tasheana), Cameron deBernard (& Lissa Triana ), Bailey Raynor and great grandchildren Easton, Sterling, Tatum, & Amelia.

First and foremost, Bill would want you to know that he was a follower of Jesus Christ, saved by His grace and forever transformed by His love and forgiveness. He could not speak about Gods goodness without tearing up with gratitude. He found his purpose in mentoring and teaching others how to walk daily with his Jesus.

Bill loved his Providence Church Family and served as a senior Sunday School teacher for over 30 years. He was also a huge part of the Men’s Tuesday morning breakfast and looked forward to it each week.

Outside of church, Bill loved spending time with his family, writing poetry, shopping, target shooting, and sharing meals with friends. He developed special relationships with everyone from the mail carrier to the staff at his favorite Diner, Sunny’s. He will be truly missed by everyone who knew him.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, October 28th at 11am at the Providence Church Amphitheater 6339 Glenwood Avenue, with a time of visitation afterwards. The family will hold a private graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, feel free to make a donation to one of Bills favorite Ministries: Operation Resolute.org, or New Life Camp.