Lou Gary Hughes Sr.

Lou Gary Hughes, Sr. was born to the late Carey Sr. and Grace Hughes on September 25, 1947, and transitioned on December 24, 2024, in Little Rock, Arkansas. His mother proceeded him when he was a young boy, his father remarried to Selma Hughes who raised him. Growing up in Mr. Hughes’ home church was mandatory. Lou Gary accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas. In his formulative years, he developed a love and passion for drawing and Black history. As an adult, he spent dedicating countless hours to uncovering stories and collecting artifacts on African Americans across Arkansas meticulously documented the rich cultural heritage and historical experiences of Black communities. He would often spend countless hours combing through the internet, reading interviews on Black community leaders that made significant impacts in their communities throughout the years. Through his research, Lou Gary connected the Black experiences across southern state lines, revealing how communities supported and inspired each other during times of both hardship and triumph.

Lou Gary attended Gibbs Elementary, Dunbar Junior High and Horace Mann School where he received his diplomas. Additionally, he attended Arkansas AM&N. Captain Lou Gary Hughes dedicated over two decades of distinguished service to the Pulaski County Sheriff's Department, where he embodied the values of dedication, leadership, and community service. Beginning his career as a deputy in the jail. Hughes demonstrated exceptional skill in both law enforcement and personnel management, earning multiple commendations for his work in community outreach and departmental organization. Through his steadfast commitment to professional development and exemplary service, he progressively advanced through the ranks, serving as a Jail Deputy, Corporal, Sergeant and Lieutenant before achieving the rank of Captain. In his role as Captain, Hughes oversaw jail operations, implementing many impactful programs.

Lou Gary is survived by his wife, Blanche Spencer Hughes, daughters Brittney Hughes Terrell (Roderick), Little Rock, AR, LaShannon Spencer, Boston, MA; Shelly Cotton, Los Angeles, CA; LaTasha Harris, Little Rock, AR; sons Lou Gary Jr. Hughes (Pamela) Katy, TX; Brian Hughes, his sisters Ercel Walker, Washington, DC and Karen Hughes, Little Rock, AR and brother Jimmy Smith, Sr. both of Little Rock, AR. And his special niece, Janice Bardley Washington, Washington, DC.