Mr. Paul R. Hughes, of Burlington, a former longtime Watertown resident, died on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at Sunrise Senior Living of Burlington. Paul was a devoted husband to his wife of 61 years, Joan, and in particular, over the last ten years as she struggled with complications of Alzheimer's disease. He was dedicated to his six children and an active part of their lives as well as the lives of his grandchildren.
Born in Brighton he was the son of the late William and Emily (Doyle) Hughes. Raised in Watertown, he was a graduate of Newton North Technical High School. At an early age he began working in the electrical trade as well as being an accomplished carpenter. He joined the family business, W.H. Hughes, Inc. of Waltham before taking a job with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as an electrician. He married Waltham native Joan A. Gibson in Saint Mary's Church on October 11, 1958. They lived for 40 years on Morrison Rd in Watertown. His children dubbed him a professional tinkerer and his help was always welcome as they made their new homes. He was also a good friend and neighbor always willing to lend a hand. He retired in 1992 and retirement afforded Paul and Joan more time to do their favorite thing, travel by car, throughout New England enjoying the wonderful landscape, good food and a glass of Guinness. As their health declined, they transitioned, to Sunrise Senior Living and easily adapted to their new environment. His family remains grateful to the wonderful staff of Sunrise for the care and compassion given to both of their parents.
In addition to his wife, Joan A. (Gibson) Hughes, he leaves his children Michael Hughes (Shelly Silverman) of Nashua, New Hampshire, Marianne E. Flynn (Stephen) of Canton, Nancy A. Moore (Thomas Struckman) of East Sandwich, Susan E. Smith, Sandra L. Shea (Michael), all of Billerica and Daniel C. Hughes (Tina) of Franklin, New Hampshire; his grandchildren, Ryan Hughes, Briana Papaleo (Daniel), Jack Flynn, Paul E. Hughes, Amy Banda (Joseph), Melanie and Robert Smith, Nicole, Makayla and Daniel Jr. Hughes and the late Christopher Hughes; his great-grandchildren, Dylan, Christopher Jr and Aubrianna; his brother, Richard Hughes (late Janet and Pat) of Waltham and the late William Hughes (late Claire), late Joseph (Alice) Hughes and the late Robert Hughes (late Helen); his sister-in-law, Irene Gibson (late David) of Sandwich; nieces & nephews.
Family and friends will honor and remember Paul's life by gathering for calling hours in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20) Waltham on Friday, November 15th from 4 to 8 p.m. and again at 8 a.m. on Saturday morning before leaving in procession to The Church of Saint Luke, 132 Lexington Street, Belmont, where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9 a.m. Burial will follow in Ridgelawn Cemetery, Watertown.
Memorials in his name may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 309 Waverley Oaks Road, Waltham, MA 02452.