Deacon Al Joseph Hughes
1954-2023
"If I Can Help Somebody as I Pass Along, T hen My Living Shall Not Be in Vain"

Deacon Al Joseph Hughes was born to Joseph Hughes, Sr. and Louise Hughes on September 10, 1954, in Gretna (Gadsden County), Florida. He resided in the area until 1998 when he, his wife Verean, and three of their children relocated to Tampa, Florida.

Preceding Deacon Hughes in death were his parents; sister: Sharon Denise Hughes; and brothers-in-law: James Smith, Warren Street, and Henry Williams, Jr.

Deacon Hughes was educated in the Gadsden County Public School System. After his high school graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army with his assignment in communications. He served his country honorably during his tour of duty.

Deacon Hughes accepted Christ Jesus as his personal Savior. He was a man of faith who he lived a life of obedience. "The joy of the Lord was his strength." He was a faithful servant leader of Miracle Temple Church of God in Christ in Tampa who used his influence and every opportunity to share the Word of God. His fight of faith had breakthrough blessings.

When Deacon Hughes and his family relocated to Tampa, Florida, he began his 20-year career with the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART). To his credit, he was recognized many times with awards for his safe driving. Not only was he a skilled driver, but he also allowed God to use his love for people to be his means for helping others who needed a generous dose of wisdom and/or encouragement, a listening ear or just to be reminded that God is good. Because of his selflessness and generosity, Deacon Hughes' living was not in vain.

When the home is filled with love, you will always find God. Deacon Hughes loved spending time with his family and friends. His pastime relaxation was watching football games on TV. He also enjoyed being in the fresh air and sunshine. His outside activities included his maintaining his well-manicured yard by giving it curb appeal. He also took great pride in washing and keeping the vehicles neat and clean.

Having fulfilled his promise to serve the Lord with gladness, Deacon Al Joseph Hughes relocated to his Heavenly Father's home on Monday, April 10, 2023, where he can serve Him forever.

Deacon Al Joseph Hughes was determined to do as much as he could for all that he could and in any way that he could. Now is his time to rest in heavenly peace. Those who will forever cherish his memory are his loving and devoted wife of 43 years: Verean Hughes; faithful children: Machelle (Anthony) Gray, Alvin Hughes, Al Demetrian Hughes, and Sherri (Darius) Daniels; caring brothers: Otha Hughes and Joseph Hughes, Jr.; compassionate sisters: Betty Milton, Doris (Earnest) Rittman, Jeanette Hughes, Gail Street, Evelyn Smith, and Inell James; friend who supported him on special occasions: Resow Goggins; brothers-in-law: Earnest Rittman and James Williams; loving grandchildren; and many other sorrowing relatives and sympathetic friends.