Thomas More Hughes

Professor Thomas More Hughes

Tom Hughes, 60, Professor of History at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, passed away on November 24^th, 2022, at his home, with family and friends by his side.

Tom was born in Princeton, New Jersey, to the late Governor and Mrs. Richard J. Hughes. He was the youngest of ten children and is survived by his wife Peggy, (formally Baxter/Thomas), stepdaughters: Christen Baxter, Jessica Baxter, and Brittany and Cody Watkins. Grandchildren; Winter Rose Watkins and Emmett Allen Watkins. Brothers; John (Claudia) Hughes, Mike Murphy, Pat Murphy, Brian (Pamula) Hughes. sisters Mary Hughes and Honey Hughes (David Patterson), and many nieces and nephews

Tom spent many years teaching history at Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey. In 2000, he moved to K.V.C.C. to continue his career as a history Professor. While teaching certain periods, he would dress as Henry VIII in full robe with props.  Determined to bring History alive, Tom would sometimes sing old spirituals in class to complement his lessons.  His favorite song to sing was a heartfelt rendition of “Old Man River”.

Tom made friends wherever he went, had a wonderful sense of humor, and will be missed by many people who were lucky enough to know him.

All are welcome to attend A Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 7, 2023 at 10 a.m. at Redmond Funeral Home 4100 S Westnedge Ave.  All are encouraged to share their memories on the website https;//www.redmondfuneralhomes.net

‘HEAVEN is where you meet all the cats you ever loved!’

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Kalamazoo Animal Rescue. (http://www.kalamazooanimalrescue.org)