William "Billy" Wesley Hughes, Sr.

Billy Hughes died peacefully on Sunday, March 27, 2022. Every fish in the Flint feared him when he was boy with his beloved Dad. William W Hughes, was born July 6, 1932, to Robert W Hughes and Inez Hughes Layfield. Mr Hughes was preceded by his parents, his sister Grace King and brother Whaley, whom he idolized his entire life, even after they went into business together in the late 50’s, early 60’s . . . several times. Additionally he was preceded by his son Wes and son-in-law, Richard Adams. Survivors include his most cherished; his out-going, never met a stranger, sparkle of life wife of 70 years Hazel, whom he met in high school. Also a daughter, Pat Hughes Adams, a son Dallas and daughter Kay (Niki.) A granddaughter Yvette Renfroe and grandson Richard Adams, Jr and several great-grandchildren. Amongst those is a plethora of nieces and nephews whom he loved as his own. One nephew said ‘his heart was as big as his place in everyone’s memory.’ The sentiment could not be more well put. He joined the Air Force (he was terrified of flying; go figure) posted originally in Portland before going to Moses Lake, WA. He was stationed in French Morocco during the Korean War, before returning to Albany and his wife Hazel. They thoroughly enjoyed each of the 70 years of their marriage. He started a business out of his garage in 1963 and, taking a cue from an old print shop gathering dust in a downstairs corner of the Herald, an employer from his youth, named it Albany Printing Company. His first customer was Phoebe Putney, and over the next 50 years ended a company with customers in over half the states. He will be missed dearly by many people, but the family finds solace that he is now at peace surrounded by so many loved ones. Graveside funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 30, 2022, in Crown Hill Cemetery with Joseph W. Jones officiating. Mr. Hughes will lie in state from 2 until 5 p.m., on Tuesday at the funeral home for friends and family to pay thier respects and sign the register book. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.josephwjones.com. Joseph W. Jones Funeral Home of Leesburg has been given the honor to serve the Hughes family.