Donald Hoy Hughes

Donald Hoy Hughes, age 82, of Montevallo, Alabama, passed away peacefully with the early morning light, Friday, March 27, 2026. He courageously battled a range of health issues in the final years of his life. Don was born on October 23, 1943, in Galveston, Texas, to the late Hoy Faulkner Hughes and Mary Irene Stanwood Hughes. He graduated from Starke University School in Montgomery, AL in 1962. Don received a Bachelor of Science Degree, in History and Photography from Alabama College, class of 1967, now known as the University of Montevallo. Don then went on to serve in the Alabama National Guard from 1968 - 1979. Don’s career path began as a photographer for the University, and later serving the communities of Shelby County and Birmingham. He taught at Shelby Academy for 2 years in 1973 and 1974. From there he continued and served as a detective for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, and then became Regional Disaster Program Manager for the American Red Cross. During the 70’s Don served on the Montevallo Volunteer Fire Department. In 1976, he was hired as City Clerk for the City of Montevallo, and promoted to City Manager in 1980. In 1992, he became the Shelby County Manager and Public Works Director, and continued this service until his retirement. In Don’s final service to Montevallo for a 2 year span, he served as a District 4 representative on the Montevallo City Council. A get-it-done kind of guy, Don committed himself to serve his community in order to enhance the present and future progress for all citizens of Montevallo and the greater Shelby County. Don took great pride in his work and the achievements he cultivated over the years.

Don is survived by his partner of 60 years, Patti Sue Hughes; his son, Hoy (Nicole); his daughter, Rachael (Adam); and his brother, Billy (Heidi), and Don’s nieces, Amber, Georgia, and Mattie; Aunt Anne Matthews, Debbie Pettipas and family, and Donna Richburg and family.

Don was known for his ingenuity, curiosity and fearlessness. His greatest joy was telling stories of his life adventures. Don found great happiness in the arts; he was an avid photographer, a carver of wooden figurines such as ducks and chickens, a wood block print maker, and a home craft wine maker. His wine became a welcomed gift to many folks within his community all the way to the end. Don was a one of a kind character who will be missed by whose hearts he touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Rockco Funeral Home, 3715 Highway 25, Montevallo, Alabama 35115, on April 11, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm with a Reception to follow until 4:00 pm.