Elven W. Hughes (Junie), age 95, of Gardendale, Alabama passed away peacefully on November 24, 2019 at 11:20pm surrounded by family at Brookwood Hospital after a long fight with Alzheimer’s and a brief illness.
Mr. Hughes was born in Vernon, TX on June 14, 1924 and made the journey with his family to Alabama when he was in the 6th grade. They settled in the Turkey Creek area of Warrior, Alabama. Mr. Hughes spoke fondly of his dad teaching him carpentry skills at a young age.
While serving in World War II, he earned three bronze stars. Mr. Hughes was a private, first class in the 83rd infantry. Due to being wounded in active duty, he was awarded a purple heart. Immediately upon returning from war, Mr. Hughes married the love of his life, Margaret Clayton.
Eager to work after the war, he became a diesel mechanic at Liberty Motors in Birmingham. He also acquired his real estate license allowing him to help in the family business, Clayton Homes. Being an early entrepreneur and his extensive business training led to his success at both of his small businesses. Mr. Hughes first opened the Western Auto Store with his family in Gardendale. His second venture, which allowed him to become and integral part of the community, was Hughes Hardware in Mt. Olive. After retirement, he started a small engine repair business at his residence.
Giving back to his community was one of his passions. Mr. Hughes served as an usher at Gardendale Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church and was a member for over 30 years. In addition, he was driver for Meals on Wheels and a member of the FOP lodge. Mr. Hughes was an avid motorcycle rider and fisherman, but most of all enjoyed watching westerns and playing with his grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by parents, Sibbie and Earl W. Hughes; brother, Landon Hughes; sister, Margie Ray (Doyle); loving wife of 67 years, Sarah Margaret Clayton Hughes.
Mr. Hughes is survived by his only child, Margaret Lynn Marsh (Van); two grandsons, James Michael Marsh (Candace) and Jamison Van Marsh (Amie); three great grandchildren, Austin Marsh, Kaitlyn Rotenberry (Wesley), and Chandler Marsh; two great, great grandchildren, Brenley Marsh and Lillian Rotenberry; and several extended family members whom he dearly loved.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 29, 2019, at Ridout’s Gardendale Chapel, 2029 Decatur Highway, Gardendale. Friends are invited to share their memories of Mr. Hughes with his family during visitation at 10am, and funeral services will begin at 11am. Immediately following, there will be a graveside service at Oakwood Memorial Gardens located adjacent to the funeral home.
Flowers or donations to the Alzheimer’s Association (act.alz.org) are welcome. Online condolences may be expressed through www.dignitymemorial.com
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