Ralph Hughes

Ralph Henry Hughes III, passed on Sunday, February 28, 2021, at the age of 71, in Dublin, Georgia. He has left his earthly body for greener pastures, to enjoy eternal bliss, or perhaps live again.

Ralph was born in Pittsburgh, PA on May 20th, 1949, to Ralph Hughes and Dorothy Schramm Hughes. A veteran, Ralph served in the US Navy from 1967 to 1971. Throughout his life, Ralph worked hard to provide for his family, often taking on side jobs to earn extra money. Each of his children have nostalgic memories of going with Dad to work; sales meetings, stripping and waxing floors, painting houses, you name it; Dad did it all. Believe it or not, Ralph loved painting! In particular he loved to paint the trim; he enjoyed the patience and focus he used to paint. He selflessly painted many homes for friends and relatives over the years.

A loving father, Ralph, with his wife Jean Shivelhood Hughes, raised two daughters, Lori Hughes Matlock (Rod) and Kelly Hughes Concilio, and one son, Michael Hughes. A cherished and devoted grandfather, he is survived by his grandchildren Benjamin Stoffer, Jacob Stoffer, Matthew Stoffer, Aidan Matlock, Anthony Concilio Jr, and Kasey Concilio. And as a great-grandfather, Ralph is survived by his great-grandsons Addison Concilio and Tiberias Stoffer. All of his progeny are grateful to have had this awesome man in their lives.

Ralph loved music! All of his children and grandchildren have fond memories growing up listening to the excellent music he shared with us. We all connect with Ralph through music in some way, whether it be a song, Old Man by Neil Young perhaps, an album, Paul Simon's Graceland maybe, or the sheer joy of listening to him play guitar himself. He even taught his son how to play guitar, which Michael uses to connect with Ralph every time he plays.

Ralph shared his infectious laugh and humor with everyone he met, often filling the room with laughter! Although his laughter will be missed, it remains still in everyone's heart. Just remembering his laugh brings joy to one's soul.

There are so many memories of Ralph. But, one fond memory that comes to mind is when Ralph and his son Michael went hiking on Pensacola Beach (as they often did), and ended up in a bird sanctuary, being attacked by thousands of birds! Ralph and Michael escaped quickly,  laughing about it later. And who could forget his famous spaghetti and meatballs! All family get-togethers included him making as many meatballs as possible, counting every one.

Although all are saddened by his passing, the consciousness that was Ralph Henry Hughes III was a blessing to us all, and we are grateful to have shared life with him for however brief a period it was. Nothing material lasts, but consciousness continues for eternity, and Ralph lives on in our hearts. Ralph is now reunited with his Mother, Father, and brothers Michael Hughes and Raymond Jena.

A Memorial Service, a Celebration of Life, is planned for Ralph at a later date.

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