Keith Francis McHugh

Keith was born on February 15, 1955, to the late Edward Kevin McHugh and the late Marilyn McHugh in Neptune, New Jersey. After high school graduation, Keith attended the Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, on Long Island, New York. After completing his education, he embarked on his Merchant Marine career, working his way up to Chief Engineer and “sailing the seven seas” for a number of years. He also worked for private companies in marine capacities, finishing his career as Port Engineer for several years. Keith’s work ethic was always to do everything with excellence.

Survivors include his wife, Charlotte; his three brothers, Kevin (Lauren), Michael, Peter (Pam); and two sisters, Colleen, and Kathy (John), and nieces and nephews.

He married the love of his life, Charlotte, in 2005, often referring to her as his “anchor.” They enjoyed 21 years together and sought to honor their Lord Jesus Christ in their lives. They were members of Kempsville Presbyterian Church.

Keith loved working with his hands and with tools, making and fixing things--be it a car, something broken in the house, working in the yard, building picnic tables, birdhouses, and more. He also enjoyed fixing things for other people or using his vast amount of knowledge, teaching them how to fix something broken. He and Charlotte shared a love of nature—animals and birds and had a delightful pet bunny, Boo Boo, for 10 ½ years. He also loved the water and enjoyed every opportunity he had to go boating or fishing, whether in the Florida Keys, where he lived for some years before marriage, or here in Virginia Beach.

He will be deeply missed by all those who loved him but we know he is pain-free and enjoying the pleasures of heaven with his loving Lord and family and friends who are there.

The memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 8th at 2 PM at the Rosewood-Kellum Funeral Home at 601 N. Witchduck Road, Virginia Beach (757) 671-1717.

There will be no burial service, rather cremation. The service will be livestreamed.