Charles E Hughes

Charles Edward Hughes, age 82, of Rockford, Illinois peacefully passed away on Wednesday, June 3, 2026. He was born on December 18, 1942 in Kankakee, Illinois to Vivian and Bessie (Cook) Hughes. Chuck graduated from Kankakee High School in 1954 and went on to Bradley University in Peoria, where he graduated with his bachelor’s degree in 1960. Chuck married the love of his life, Mary Jane Kennedy on August 20, 1966. He worked for many years working his way up the corporate ladder in various metal cutting and manufacturing businesses until his retirement from Kennametal as sales manager in May of 2010.

Chuck was a photographer, he was a member of the Rockford Photo Club (https://www.rockfordphotoclub.org/chuck-hughes) and enjoyed photographing all subjects. He was always helpful to anyone starting out in photography and loved to share techniques with others. He loved golfing, reading, and spending time with his grandchildren. Chuck was a fan of the Indy 500, he had gone with his dad and continued the family tradition by bringing his son. He enjoyed listening to music.

Chuck is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary Jane Hughes of Rockford, IL; children, Todd Hughes of Rockford, IL, Kelley Hughes of Rockford, IL, and Sean (Elizabeth) Hughes of Roscoe, IL; and grandchildren, Kennedy Hughes of Rockford, IL, Kasey Hughes of Rockford, IL, Makenna Hughes of Roscoe, IL, and Ainsley Hughes of Roscoe, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents Vivian and Bessie Hughes.

Private Family Services