01/04/1938 –06/04/2021
Lester Hughes a lifelong resident of El Paso, Texas died peacefully at his home on Friday, June 4, 2021.
Lester is preceded in death by his wife Myrna Hughes, and two brothers, William Hughes and Teddy Hughes. Lester is survived by his 6 children Lester Hughes Jr, Nell Williams, Terry Hughes, Michelle Hughes-Goldman, John Hughes and Kathleeen Hughes. Lester had 8 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and a brother John E. Hughes.
Lester was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and Professional Artist. He was deeply loved by all who knew him. He made the world a better place with his paintings and had such a big personality. He loved people and conversation and had a special gift of gab. He had a great sense of humor, always joking and laughing, one of the most unique people you had ever met.
Prior to being an artist, he was a typewriter instructor. Lester was a self-taught artist who always would say it was a “God Given Talent” and gave all praise and honor to the lord. Most people didn't know that he was colored blind.
Once he saw a picture in a gallery and went in to purchase it. He thought the sales price was $25 dollars, but was told by the manager $250.00 was the correct price. After seeing the look on his face, the manager suggested he do his own painting. He then gave him a set of paints and brushes to get him started. Once Hughes discovered he had talent he quit his job and started painting full time. His studio was located in the house, in the utility room with the washer and dryer. In the walls of his studio hung a picture of Christ, with a handwritten message that read, “Whatever You Did For Christ Today Was Not Good Enough.”
Since then, Lester Hughes had become a renowned Professional Artist. His art work has been displayed and sold throughout the United States. His work has been admired and purchased by several U.S. Presidents, politicians, movie-stars and professional athletes. Ronald Reagan honored him in Time Magazine in 1981, stating that his painting was among some of his favorite memorabilia. His artwork was hung in the White House during Ronald Reagan and President George Bush’s Presidential term. When Vice President George Bush came to El Paso to hold a reception for Pat Haggerty; Lester was cordially invited.
He will be greatly missed, but he is in the arms of his savior.
Services will be held on June 19th, 2021 at Hillcrest Baptist Church (4710 Hercules, El Paso, TX 79924) at 10:30 Am In lieu of flowers please send donations to 3420 Hollyglen Street, El Paso, Texas 79936
