James P. Hughes, 91, passed away on August 11, 2024. Born and raised in Jersey City to parents Francis and Dolores Hughes. Throughout his life, he made his home in various places moving from Jersey City to Youngstown, NY, and later to Toms River, NJ, before finally settling in Whiting.

A distinguished Korean War veteran, leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and adventure. Born with a fierce spirit, James served his country with honor, bravely firing a bazooka and a jeep mounted M20 Recoilless rifle, which eventually led to a hearing disability. His service exemplified his unwavering courage and commitment.

After returning from the war, James married the love of his life, Dorothy Tullo, an Italian princess, in Jersey City, NJ. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love, marked by deep companionship and shared adventures that spanned decades. Together, they built a family filled with joy, raising two sons who would carry on James's spirit of excellence and resilience.

James was a devoted father to Dr. James Hughes, Jr., a psychologist, and John Hughes, Vice President of Technology. He took great pride in nurturing their talents and passions, particularly in sports and was actively involved in John's ice hockey career. Winter snowstorms in upstate New York were no obstacle for James, who built an ice rink in his backyard, so his sons could skate.

He also supported his son James in his karate tournaments during college, and later became the pit crew for young James's jet ski racing adventures. The bond between father and sons was strengthened through these shared experiences, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

In his later years, James's love for the sea led him to captain a 50-foot Gulfstar sailing yacht from Tortola to Miami, even navigating through a hurricane. This adventure was just one of many which defined his adventurous spirit. Summers were often spent aboard the yacht in Florida, where James and Dorothy would live during their visits to their son in Ft. Lauderdale, embracing the warm weather and the joy of being close to family.

James was a proud St. Peters College graduate and worked in Warehouse Management for Carborundum, moved on to be an Import/Export Manager at Spode China and Square D Electric, until retiring in 2000. He was an active member of the community, contributing his time to The American Legion in Silverton, the VFW in Lacey Township, his Irish heritage, New York Yankees and enjoyed playing softball with his younger brother Jerry, while both were in their 70s.

He is predeceased by his parents Francis Xavier and Dolores Hughes. James is survived by his wife Dorothy Hughes; his sons John Hughes and James Hughes and his wife Lilliana of Villages FL; and his grandson Nicholas, as well as his sisters-in-law Lillian and Ruth Hughes, and many nieces and nephews.

James is the last of 12 Hughes siblings predeceased by his brothers, Joseph, Francis, Gabriel, George, Gerald, John and sisters, Clare, Mary, Rita, Thecla and Winifred.

James Hughes was a man of remarkable character, whose life was marked by service, love, and adventure. A legacy that will be cherished by all who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, as they remember the warmth of his smile, sense of humor, the strength of his spirit, and the love he gave so freely.