John Hughes

john hughes
On October 13, 2020 John Gerald Allen Hughes was suddenly called home to be with The Lord. Born to the late James H.F. Hughes and Sadie Bernice Taylor Hughes, on February 7, 1959 in Philadelphia Pennsylvania, John was destined to serve. Affectionately known by his nickname "Jerry", he was the 5th child of 6 and at a young age was introduced to the Lord and later Baptized. He was educated in the Philadelphia school system and upon graduating, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps-Reserves where he served for 12 years. After receiving an honorable discharge, "Jerry" married his childhood sweetheart, Linda Petty of Philadelphia PA and within their union raised four children. In 1990 he moved to Portland Maine for a fresh start, and a new horizon for God, himself, and his family. It was here God granted him another son, a new beginning, and a new transition in life. Here is where wounds turned into wisdom, friends became family, and Jerry decided to use his given name. As the Phoenix, the very symbol of Portland, rose from its own ashes, so in many ways had John. John worked various jobs and continued his education earning an associate degree in Communication from CMTT (now known as SMCC). He also volunteered across his community. You would often find him downtown serving at the same homeless shelter where he once took shelter and at St. Elizabeth's Pantry of St. Luke's Cathedral which is where he was headed on that fateful day he took his final walk. John had taken on other responsibilities at his home church, Green Memorial where he was a devoted member for over 20 years. There he served as an Usher, Choir Member, Minister of Helps and was entrusted as the church's Sexton. He loved going to church and spreading the word of God. John also loved spending time with his family, traveling to his hometown of Philadelphia to see cousins and others sharing words of wisdom with his nieces and nephews when he could. He enjoyed a good movie from time to time at home or at the theater. You would recognize his laugh no matter if you were at the theater or the house! We will always remember that big smile that could warm your heart and his encouraging words to brighten your day. John was a deep thinker and hard worker. He will truly be missed by so many. John was preceded in death by his parents, his eldest brother Angelo James, his youngest brother Michael Antonio, his stepdaughter Lathenia Petty and as of this year, his only sister Delores Bonita. He leaves to cherish precious memories, his four sons Donte Lightford, Dominic Hughes, Jeremiah Hughes, all of Phila. PA and Nehemiah Hughes of Portland ME; his daughter Jerilyn Borroughs (Hughes) of Phila. PA; 10 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, 2 brothers, Robert Hughes of Portland ME, and Andre Hughes of Westbrook ME; a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Arrangements are under the direction of the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland, ME.

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  1. To John’s family , especially his daughters and sons – oh! how he loves you all- I have come to know him through St Elizabeth’ s Jubilee Center – every Tues he will be there with his loving smile, enthusiasm , and stories of his journey through life – one of faith and always full of service to his friends(everyone became his friend) – I know I’ll remember John as he will be present to each of you always . John L.

    – John Leddy

  2. Success – By Ralph Waldo Emerson To laugh often and much; To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; To earn appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; To appreciate beauty; To find the best in others; To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; To know even one life has breathed easier because you lived; This is to have succeeded. Semper Fi my friend – Hal Fournier

    – Hal Fournier

  3. I knew John through our volunteering for St. Elizabeth’s Jubilee Center. Things always seemed better when John was there. He knew so many of the neighbors who come to the center and he was cheerful and fun and a tease and just lifted everyone’s spirits when he was there! If I wasn’t sure about something, I’d just look at John and he’d give me a wink or a nod. John loved to bake and often brought delicious snacks for us to share over a cup of coffee. We were all shocked that his time came so suddenly and when he was so young and full of hope. I miss him every time I go to volunteer and that is every week! God Bless you John! It is difficult to let a good friend go. Dibbie

    – Dibbie Appleton

  4. John was an absolute joy to work with at St. Elizabeth’s Jubilee Center. Not only was he a long time volunteer and regular, he knew most of the neighbors who come to St. E’s each Tuesday, and they knew him! John loved to bake and often came with a cake or special brand of cookies he had made! Always cheerful, joking, hard working , oh how he will be missed! We who worked with him, loved him and share his family’s grief! Dibbie Appleton

    – Dibbie Appleton

  5. Please accept my heartfelt condolences for your sudden loss. Wishing the family warm memories to cherish. Jerry will remain in our hearts forever.

    – Sincerely, Cousin Stephanie and family

  6. Hey Cuz this is Marcus I just found this sorry I didn’t know or have any way to find out my number is 7159194205

    – Wayne

  7. Dearest Uncle “Jerry” was more than an uncle. He was father figure, a confidant and an advisor. He was a patriot to his country and a servant to its people. May God Almighty grant him the compliment we all should strive for, “Well done my good and faithful servant”. – Davi

    – Davina B. Seaborn


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