Frank (Russ) Hughes Jr. passed peacefully at home, to be with the Lord, on February 9th, 2023 after celebrating his wife Kay's birthday with his entire family the evening before. Frank was born in Camden, New Jersey to Frank Sr. and Naomi Hughes on December 26th, 1934. Frank was preceded in death by his only brother Sonny Hughes. He was married to his high school sweetheart, best friend, and the love of his life for 67 years. Kay was always by his side and together they made their dreams come true.

They had four sons, Russ (Barbie), Scott (Deena), Doug (Dinara) and Kent (Stef). Dad loved his grandchildren, Robyn and her husband Dustin, Heidi, Adam, and Drew and his two great granddaughters, Hayley and Lucy. Pop (Poppy) loved being with each of them more than anything whether it was fishing, camping, playing ball, working on their home improvement projects, going out to eat, or just spending time sharing stories, words of wisdom and advice.

From an early age he had a desire to contribute to his community and was President of his Audubon High School Class of 1954. Many of his classmates became close family friends and were called Uncle and Aunt. Frank worked for New Jersey Bell until 1971 when he transferred to Southern Bell relocating his family to Jensen Beach so they could enjoy the climate, local waterways, and ocean in a lifestyle that he loved so much. He retired in 1985 after 30 years with many friendships that lasted a lifetime.

He continued to serve his community devoting his time and leadership. He enjoyed his time as Director of Girls Scouts, YMCA, and the United Way. He met wonderful people volunteering in the Lions Club and the Optimist Club of Jensen Beach. He served as Director of the telephone employees Blood Bank of Stuart, representative of the Communications Workers of America, and member of the Telephone Pioneers of America. He dedicated many hours to Cedar Point Village 6 as a board member and President and enjoyed looking after the village as well as the time he got to spend with the many neighbors who became dear friends.

Frank, better known to many as Coach, was organizer, director, and coach of ASA Youth Softball in Martin County. His teams went on to win state and national championships. Lifelong relationships were established with many of the young men that he coached, mentored and welcomed into his home. In the spring of 2022, he was honored with a surprise reunion attended by many of his players who traveled from all over the country to express their gratitude and admiration for him and Kay.

Frank was honored to serve as the Martin County School Board District 1 representative for eight years where he devoted his time and talents to the children and teachers of Martin County. He was very proud that his oldest granddaughter returned after graduating from the University of Florida to teach in the MC School System. Any time he met a young professional he would ask if they had attended MC Schools and took pride when they answered yes. He kept in contact with many people he served with and stayed involved watching and attending Board meetings.

After retiring Frank and Kay enjoyed living aboard and cruising on their trawler, the KD-Too, for over 15 years. They set anchor in many ports around Florida, the Bahamas, Crisfield, MD and up and down the Eastern Seaboard during their adventures. They made many great friendships among the other boaters and in the communities where they docked.

They loved going to the beach, paddling their canoe, sightseeing from their Whaler, fishing, exploring back roads, and many times ending up at Lion Country Safari to see the baby rhino. They spent several summers in Boothbay Harbor, Maine helping to run a historic lodge. They loved getting to know local Mainers, international staff, and lodge guests. He was always up for an adventure traveling twice to Alaska and making a trip to Dubai.

Frank never met a stranger. He became friends with many people around town that he met at local restaurants, his bank, and the marina where he kept his boat. One of their favorite spots was Halpatiokee Park where they enjoyed visiting with the employees and other park goers on their walks. He met wonderful people at the many medical facilities and doctor's offices where he would tell you, he spent too much time lately, but was always so grateful for their service.

We have lost an amazing man and he will be missed by many, but we will see him again!

If desired, in lieu of flowers please consider St. Jude Children's Hospital. https://www.stjude.org