Thomas Bennett McHugh

Colonel Thomas B. McHugh, U.S. Air Force (Retired), 95, of Beavercreek, OH, passed away peacefully at home on Mon., Oct. 19, 2026. Born in Louisville, KY. Tom graduated from St. Xavier High School and went on to earn advanced degrees in Engineering from the University of Kentucky and George Washington University. During his distinguished 28-year Air Force career, he served at several duty stations, including a one-year tour in Vietnam flying the C-7A cargo aircraft. He concluded his service at WPAFB as comptroller for the Aeronautical Systems Division. Outside of work, Tom was a jack-of-all-trades who could design, build, and fix almost anything. After retiring, he and Barb enjoyed time at Elk Lake in Owenton, KY, where he taught many grandchildren to ski. A devoted UK fan, he loved bantering with family who favored UofL. He was an active member of St. Luke and the C7a Caribou Association. Above all, he was a respected and loving husband, father, and grandfather whose generosity touched everyone who knew him. In 1959, he married the love of his life, Barbara Jane Brown. Together, they had five children: Cathy (Jeff) Gross, Tom (Cathy) McHugh Jr, Maureen (Craig) Moore, Kevin (Julie) McHugh, and Colleen (Kevin) McGovern. Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Sara Hastings; 20 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by parents, William and Dorothy (Kaelin) McHugh; wife, Barbara; sisters, Marilyn Hohmann and Dorothy Ray; and brother, William McHugh Jr. Visitation will be Thurs, Oct 29, 2026, 5-8 PM, Tobias Funeral Home, Beavercreek Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial, Fri, Oct 30, 2026, at 10:30 AM, St. Luke Catholic Church, Beavercreek, OH. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of Dayton or St. Luke Catholic Church.