John William Hughes

September 14, 1938 – April 3, 2026

John William Hughes, age 87, passed away on April 3, 2026, entering into a heavenly reunion with the love of his life, Barbara Hughes.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Hughes; his loving daughter, Vickie Barrett; and his grandson, Grant Barrett.

He is survived by his son, Scott Hughes; his son-in-law, Greg Barrett (Gail); his grandchildren, Amanda Williamson (Matt) and Adam Barrett (Shannon); his cherished great-grandchildren, Ellie and Parker; his sister, Mary Hughes; and several nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. To those who loved him most, he was affectionately known as “Papa.”

John was raised in Walker County and graduated from Carbon Hill High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, where he was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. Following his military service, he settled in Huntsville, Alabama, where he built a career in communications and security at Redstone Arsenal.

Above all, John loved his family. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who found joy in time spent with those he loved most. He was a passionate Alabama football fan and enjoyed traveling to both the mountains and the beach. Known as the biggest jokester in the room, John had a gift for making others smile and laugh, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.

In honor of his playful spirit, his family invites all who knew him to smile and remember one of his favorite “dirty” jokes: a white horse fell in a mud puddle.

He will be deeply missed and loved forever.

Visitation will be held at Valhalla Funeral Home, 698 Winchester Road NE, Huntsville, AL 35811 on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00 pm. Burial will immediately follow services at Valhalla Memory Gardens Garden of Valor.