Andrew Jackson Hughes, 95, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, his caregivers, and Trinity Hospice at The Varenita in Acworth, Georgia.
Born on September 25, 1929, in Loris, South Carolina, Andrew spent most of his life in Newport News, Virginia before moving to Acworth, Georgia in 2024 to be closer to his daughters and son-in-law.
Andrew dedicated 33 years of his career to Hofheimer’s Shoes, where he served as a store manager and built lasting relationships with colleagues and customers alike. A man of deep faith, he was a proud member of First Baptist Church Newport News, where he served as a Deacon and was an active participant in his Sunday School class. He was also a faithful member of Warwick Lodge 336.
Civic duty was close to Andrew’s heart. One of his greatest passions was volunteering in countless elections for the Republican Party, where he joyfully devoted his time and energy over many decades.
Andrew was preceded in death by his parents, seven brothers, three sisters, and his devoted wife, Clara, with whom he shared 68 loving years of marriage.
He is survived by his two daughters, Kay Hughes of Dallas, Georgia and Beverly “Beck” Hughes-Abate (Anthony), of Acworth, Georgia; grandchildren, Ashlyn and Gavin; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family who cherished him dearly.
Andrew will be remembered for his faith, his love for family, his warm smile, and his dedication to service.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home with interment to follow at Peninsula Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to First Baptist Church Newport News.
8 Comments
Andy was my parents neighbor and was a delight to have around. After my dad’s passing if I were at their house working he would always stop by and chat. Prayers for the family 🙏.
I originally met Mr Hughes when he sold shoes at Holfheimers but I did not know his name but never forgot his smile and caring manner. When we joined First Baptist Church of Newport News in 2010 I noticed Mr Hughes in the hall and immediately knew his warm smile and said “hi Mr Holfheimers “ he loved hearing me call him that and I continued to call him that until our last phone call.
When he and Clara were not able to attend church any longer I would visit them in their home and we always enjoyed our visits.
Prayers lifted for the family as you travel your grief journey.🙏😘
Andy will be missed in myriad ways. At every election, he was the indispensable man with the yard signs, always enthused and smiling. May he now “rest in perpetual refreshment, light, and peace.”
I originally met Mr Hughes when he sold shoes at Holfheimers but I did not know his name but never forgot his smile and caring manner. When we joined First Baptist Church of Newport News in 2010 I noticed Mr Hughes in the hall and immediately knew his warm smile and said “hi Mr Holfheimer “ he loved hearing me call him that and I continued to call him that until our last phone call.
When he and Clara were not able to attend church any longer I would visit them in their home and we always enjoyed our visits.
Prayers lifted for the family as you travel your grief journey.🙏😘
Dear Beverly,
So sorry to hear about the passing of your father. Over the years while watching Jill’s and your friendship grow, your parents were always so warm and welcoming to me. They were both such good people. You were blessed to have them as long as you did. Sending you love today and always, Sally.
Andy, you were a really good neighbor. One of the two friendly people on that block. You and your wife greeted my mother with warm welcome and baked goods when she moved in. After she passed you were a kind heart and i enjoyed our numerous chats in your garage. Your vibrant presence has been missed over the last year and will continue to be missed. Thank you for being a good neighbor and friend. i will miss you. May God continue to bless your family and keep them during this trying time. Rest in heaven my friend.
I’m so sorry for the loss of your dear loved one. May you find comfort and peace in God’s wonderful promise to swallow up death forever and wipe the tears from all faces.
Andy Hughes was a great campaigner and a big help to the campaigns I worked on. I’m glad he lived so long and know he touched many hearts in Newport News. What a great guy.