Charles Hughes

Charles Atkins Hughes, 94, of Port Jefferson Station, New York, passed away on February 26, 2026. Born to Winfred and Charlotte Hughes on March 14, 1931, Charley grew up on Port Jefferson’s Reeves Road, where he developed from his father and brothers a lifelong love of machines, cars and motorcycles. He also excelled at athletic sports, playing town-league baseball and football.

Drafted at the age of 20, he proudly served in the United States Army as a combat medic in the Korean War from March 1952 until December 1953. Charley returned home to work as a plumber, truck driver and heavy machinery operator, eventually joining the International Union of Operating Engineers and enjoying a long career working mainly with cranes.

Charles married Marion Spies in 1961, and they purchased a house on Central Avenue in Port Jefferson Station, where they raised two children, Henry and David. After Marion passed away from cancer in 1978, Charles lovingly parented his children with the help of Marion’s sister, Lillian Spies, but he never remarried. He continued living in the Central Avenue house until his death.

A true handy man, he improved his home, constructed outbuildings and chicken coops, repaired vehicles and boats. He loved woodfires, meatloaf, road trips, learning about history and watching sports—especially the New York Mets—with a cold beer in hand. A dedicated father, Charley spent endless hours with his sons, supporting their sports, hobbies, interests and schooling. “He was a loving and generous dad,” Henry recalls. “Although he didn’t enjoy fishing, he took my brother and me often, stoking our passion for the sport.”

Retiring in 1993, Charley devoted himself to collecting and restoring vintage gas engines, especially stationary engines. He was a longtime member (until his death, the oldest member) of the Long Island Antique Power Association, working with their 1928 sawmill, exhibiting his engines, and driving his pickup across the country to attend other shows.

Through his son, David, he enjoyed many years of membership and events at the Mt. Sinai Moose Lodge.

Charles was preceded in death by his wife Marion, his brothers Douglas and Robert, his sister Shirley Brandon, his sister-in-law Lillian Spies, and, as he reflected, “Too many friends to count.” He is survived by his son Henry and his wife Chloe and their children; his son David and his partner Amy; nieces and nephews, including Bonnie Zulli and Donald Hughes, and many cherished friends, including longtime neighbor, Jack Menno.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor his memory with acts of kindness and in rooting for the Mets.

Visitation will be held at O.B. Davis Funeral Homes, 4839 Nesconset Highway, Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776 on Thursday, March 5, 2:00 – 6:00 pm, with a eulogy and a time for sharing at 5:00. Closing words by the director on Friday, March 6, 2026 at 10:30 AM. Interment to follow at Washington Memorial Park, 855 Canal Road, Mount Sinai, NY 11766.