Thomas Hughes

Thomas George Hughes passed away peacefully at Humber River Hospital on July 3, 2018 only three years shy of his goal to live to be one hundred. Born on December 22, 1920 in Mount Dennis to Thomas Alfred Hughes and Florence (Mould), he was pre-deceased by the love of his life, Joan (nee Shuttleworth). Tom was the loving father of Alison Rainford (Ralph), Gerry Hughes (Anne) and Ron Hughes (Caroline), and doting grandfather of Lisa, Sharon, Michelle, Paula, Jesse, Ryan, Jay, Garcy, Lauren, Tyler; and great-grandfather of Quinn, Brady, Colby, Hannah, Chloe, Elodie, Tate and Jude. Tom is survived by brothers Harold (Margaret) and Robert, sisters-in-law Enid Austin and Anne Hughes and brother-in-law Frank Shuttleworth. He will be missed by his many nieces, nephews and in-laws.

During the war Tom was a member of the RCAF stationed in London, England. Barely 120 pounds he nevertheless dedicated himself to 'flying a desk' in service to his country, writing faithfully to his bride Joan waiting for him back home. After the war Tom continued work as bookkeeper and later office manager at the Canadian Gypsum Company in a job lasting his entire career, setting down roots in Weston with his growing family. He was active in Pearen Memorial and then Mount Dennis United Church serving as treasurer, steward, member of council and always a stalwart member of the choir. Following retirement, he continued to be active in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Harp Lake Cottagers Association, as well as his local churches in Huntsville and Bradenton Florida, enjoying a weekly round of golf with his many friends and family.

Tom was a man of faith and honour: first and foremost a loving husband to his soulmate Joan, but also a father figure to many in his church and extended family. Dedicated and reliable, his was a calm quiet voice of reason who could also be stern with unruly children or church congregants. He loved to sing! finding joy, spiritual inspiration and harmony in the hymns he knew and loved so well. In his final years, despite failing memory and decline, he continued to be a positive, happy presence with everyone around him, with sparkling eyes, a ready smile and always a song in his heart.

A special thanks goes out to the caring staff at the Harold and Grace Baker Centre where Tom spent his last 12 years. A small donation to the Alzheimer Society Canada is appreciated. alzheimer.ca

Friends will be received at the Ward Funeral Home “Weston Chapel”, 2035 Weston Road, Toronto on Saturday August 18th, from 10:30am until the time for a Celebration of His Life Service in the Chapel at 11:30am. A reception for time of refreshments, fellowship, and favorite memories will follow the service.