Obituary: James Hughes, 83, of Hart, formerly of Rothbury

February 21, 2023

James Hughes

Obituary: James Hughes, 83, of Hart, formerly of Rothbury

James “Jim” William Hughes, 83, of Hart, formally of Rothbury, passed away at Oceana County Medical Care, on Friday, February 17, 2023. Jim was born to James and Bessie (Johnstone) Hughes, in Bath on October 31, 1940.

Jim was a graduate of Shelby Public Schools, and he served his country in the United States Air Force from 1958-1962. He was also in the National Guard and the Merchant Marines. Jim attended Lansing Community College, Muskegon Community College, and heavy equipment school. His greatest accomplishment was serving his community by being the Otto Township supervisor, from 1980-2003.

Jim was also on several boards within Oceana County, with the Veterans Board being the last one. Jim belonged to the Eagles; Masonic Lodge; American Legion; and was a life time member of the VFW Post 3256 Montague. If Jim wasn’t spending his time advising the people of his community, you could find him in nature, hunting or farming.

Jim is survived by his wife of 47 years, Melodie; his children, Jimmy, and Bill; sisters, MaryAnn Tickle, and Carol Keck; brother, Mike (Alice) Hughes; five grandsons, two granddaughters; nine great- grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was proceeded in death by his parents, Jim and Bessie Hughes; sister, Patricia Todd; son, Matthew A. Saunders; and father and mother-in-law Frederick and Virginia Groat; brothers-in-law, Frederick Groat, and Joseph Tickle; and nephew, Joey Tickle.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Crystal Valley Care Fund, PO Box 451, Hart, MI 49420.

Graveside services will be held in May, at the Otto Township Cemetery, 2801 E Garfield Rd, Hesperia.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.