Jesse Albert Hughes

He came from a large family, one of ten children. He graduated from Berlin High School in 1953 and not interested in farm life, he enlisted in the Army after graduation. His military career spanned 23 distinguished years of service. While stationed in Germany in 1954, Jesse’s life changed forever at a USO dance hall, where he met the love of his life, Erika. What began on a dance floor blossomed into a beautiful partnership that lasted 67 years. Together, they built a loving home and raised six children, creating a legacy grounded in devotion, resilience, and unwavering love.

Jesse retired from the Army in 1976, carrying with him the values of honor, discipline, and service that defined his life. Erika and his family were the center of his world. Known to family as Papa, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose guidance, steady presence, and quiet strength shaped generations.

In addition to his dedication to family and country, Jesse was a brother of the Freemasonry for 49 years and was a Past Worshipful Master of the Lynnhaven Masonic Lodge, NO. 220, a role that reflected his commitment to brotherhood, leadership, and community service. He was the recipient of the prestigious award the Order of the Purple Cross York Rite Sovereign college of North America. The highest honorary degree and award.

He found great joy in—traveling the country with Erika in his RV, tending his garden, and spending time surrounded by those he loved most, playing cards and chess. Jesse’s life was a testament to love, service, and loyalty. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jesse is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Erika; two sons; John Eric and Stephan Carl; a daughter Suzanne Luise, two grandsons, Zacharia Bernard and Aaron Russo.

He is survived by his daughter Carol, his sons Thomas, Robert, and Bernard, daughter in laws Roberta, Sharon and Mary, and a growing legacy of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Funeral Service will be held at Rosewood-Kellum Funeral Home, 601 North Witchduck Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462, US, on March 13, 2026, at 2:00 pm followed by a Committal Service at Rosewood Memorial Park.