Obituary of Howard R. Hughes

Howard R. Hughes departed his loving family at the age of 85 on April 7, 2024. He was born in Brooklyn, New York on March 25, 1939. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and loyalty that will always be remembered by those who knew him.

Howard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and loyal friend. He was known for his kind heart, adventurous spirit, and unwavering love for his family. He was a hardworking man who always put the needs of others before his own.

Howard lived a full and meaningful life. He graduated from Sewanhaka High School in Floral Park, NY and Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY with a degree in accounting. During the Vietnam War, as a member of the U.S. Air Force, he was stationed in California, where in his spare time, he became an avid skier and volunteered on California’s Ski Patrol. After a year’s tour at Thule Air Base in Greenland, he returned to Long Island where he married his wife Patricia and started to raise his family. In later years he and Patricia moved to Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, and Sydney, Australia before finally settling in Tennessee.

Howard had a great passion for life. He was a history buff, enjoyed traveling, watching movies, and reading. He had a special place in his heart for animals, particularly his dogs and the horses they had in Rogersville where he spent time horseback riding.

Howard is survived by his daughter Laura Collins (Hughes) and son Kevin Hughes; son-in-law John Collins and daughter-in-law Lisa Twark; his grandchildren, Claire, Jack, Ben, and Nora Collins; his sister Edna O’Keeffe.

We are comforted to know that Howard and Patricia are now together in heaven. They will always hold a special place in our hearts.

A graveside service and burial will be on Monday April 15, 2024 at 2:00pm at Mountain Home National Cemetery in Mountain Home, TN. Military honors will be conducted by the American Legion Hammond Post #3/265. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery by 1:50pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the ASPCA by clicking here.

Carter-Trent Funeral Home in Kingsport is serving the Hughes family.