John Mason Hughes

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Mason Hughes, Sr., who passed away on October 8, 2026, at the age of 65. Born in Lone Star, Texas, Mason made Austin his home for more than 40 years, building a life filled with family, friendships, adventure, and countless memories.

Mason married his beloved wife, Cindy, whom he met at church camp, on the sixth anniversary of their first date. Together, they shared 33 years of marriage, traveling the world, collecting European antiques, and building a life centered around faith in God, love and family. Of all his accomplishments, Mason was most proud of his four children and two grandchildren, who were the heart of his life and his greatest joy.

Mason had an undeniable love for the water and the outdoors. Whether camping, fishing, sailing, skiing, or scuba diving, he was happiest when on the water with friends and family. His enthusiasm extended to anything on wheels and water. His talent for building machines, restoring and working on old boats, jet skis, go-karts, cars, motorcycles, and the airplane alongside his father-in-law and son was one of his greatest pastimes.

Mason had the gift of negotiation and could always find a good deal. Whether searching for real estate, tracking down a used car or motor home, or taking someone vintage shopping, Mason was the person friends and family could count on. His willingness to help others including the many kids who became a second family to him, made him someone others could always count on.

A graduate of the University of North Texas, Mason earned dual degrees in Production Operations Management and Marketing, with a concentration in Product Management. An entrepreneur since 1992, Mason operated Scanlon, Hughes and Associates, a manufactures representation firm. Mason’s inventive mind led to numerous patents for manufacturing and equipment, and recently, he created a proprietary mosquito-control mixture. His positivity, curiosity, creativity, helping others, and ability to see possibilities where others might not, were defining qualities throughout his life.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mason earned a minor in music and was an exceptional vocalist, performing with the UNT Jazz Singers during his college years. Over the years, he sang more than 200 solos at Hyde Park Baptist Church, as well as at weddings,

funerals, and other special occasions. He also had the extraordinary experience of singing at the White House. His involvement with the Hyde Park Choir, Ensemble, and Quartet reflected his enduring love of music and his willingness to share his gift with others.

Mason's school years were equally full of leadership, school spirit, and intense humor. He played football and baseball in high school and college and served as the University of North Texas mascot. He went, serving as UNT Spirit Captain, Model-A Parade Officer, Cannon Captain, and Residence Hall President. During his years at Daingerfield High School, he was named Mr. DHS, served as Class President, and earned the distinction of Most Versatile. A Boy Scout for life, Mason was never one to sit on the sidelines; he enthusiastically stepped forward to lead, participate, and represent the organizations and communities he loved.

Mason was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Billie Dove Hughes; his brothers, Stuart and Jamie Hughes; and his mother-in-law, Noemi Medina. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Cindy Villarreal; his four children, Laurel Michelle, Heather Rachelle, Holly Elizabeth, and John Mason Hughes, Jr.; and his cherished grandchildren, Casey Garcia and Juliet Rivera. He is also survived by his older brother, David Hughes (Jeanie); his father-in-law, Guadalupe Villarreal, Sr.; his sister-in-law, Rachel Casarez-Perez (Joe); his brothers-in-law, Lupe Villarreal and Richard Casarez (Julia); and many beloved aunts, cousins, extended family members, his business partner Fred Alvarez, and dear friends.

Mason will be remembered for his faith in God, his love of family, his adventurous spirit, his musical talent, his inventive mind, his leadership, and his knack for finding a solution and a great bargain. He lived a life full of diverse interests, memorable experiences, and meaningful relationships. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the music he shared, and the memories that will remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.