Donald Hughes Obituary

Donald Ray Hughes, 79, of Bolivia, NC was born on May 15, 1946, in Whiteville, NC and died on May 25, 2025, in Wilmington, NC. Donald was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother whose faith, warmth, kindness, and creative problem-solving left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
A proud Navy Veteran, Donald's commitment to service extended beyond his military career. He served as an HVAC Maintenance Mechanic at the Alton Lennon Federal Building and Courthouse from 1995 until he retired in 2024. He founded the Brunswick Softball Association in 2008 and by doing so forged long-time relationships with his umpires who he held in high regard; fostering community and camaraderie through sports.
An avid UNC Tar Heels fan, he combined his passion for athletics with his role as a respected and longtime referee and umpire across Brunswick and New Hanover counties. He worked tirelessly alongside the Brunswick Baptist Association Softball League as well as with Brunswick County Parks and Recreation and was deeply passionate about sportsmanship and fair play.
Donald's family was his greatest pride and joy, with his yard and truck tied for a close second. He is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Margaret Naylor Hughes, daughters Shannon Hughes Eastman, husband Ronny of Bolivia, NC; Heather Locklear Strickland, husband Jhonathan of Boiling Spring Lakes, NC; and granddaughters Kennedy A. Strickland and Caitlyn D. Locklear- Strickland. He is also survived by his brothers, Vernon Hughes, wife Annette, of Creedmoor, NC; Billy D. Hughes, of Fort Mill, SC; and Jamye D. Hughes, wife Tori, of Creedmoor, NC. Donald was preceded in death by his son, Charles Matthew Hughes, and parents, Vernice Milligan Hughes and Delmas Hughes.
Family and friends are invited to a visitation at Brunswick Funeral Services in Shallotte on June 2, 2025, at 11:00 am followed immediately by a funeral Service officiated by Pastor Chris Vernon at 12:00 pm. Donald's legacy of kindness and service will continue to inspire those who knew him. He will be interred at the Hughes Family Cemetery in Ash, NC following the services.