John B Hughes, Jr.

John B. Hughes, Jr. 74 of Oakham, passed away surrounded by the family he loved, Monday, June 17th 2024, five days prior to his 75th birthday on June 22nd, after a period of declining health.

John was born, in Worcester, the son of John B. Hughes, Sr. and Eleanor (Thayer) Hughes. He graduated from St Peters High School where he played football and hockey. He then attended Holy Cross and Worcester State. Following college, he served 6 years in the Massachusetts National Guard. John first worked for the IRS before venturing out on his own establishing John B. Hughes Tax Preparation. John continued to run his business for almost 40 years before retiring and turning his business over to his son Chris, who had worked along side him for 25 years.

 John is survived, by his life partner and best friend of 20 years, Margaret “Meg” Dame; three children, Christian “Chris” Hughes and his wife Colleen of Worcester, Erin George and her husband Chris of Holden, Madison Dupuis and her husband Kevin of Worcester; a brother, Frank Hughes and his wife Sharon of West Yarmouth and sister, Mary Hughes of Worcester; Meg’s children, Andrew Dame and his wife Olivia of Sterling, Allison Dame and her wife, Hannah of Florida; several grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and clients who loved him. 

 John was an accomplished athlete; He loved hockey. He played as a standout at St Peters, and at Holy Cross. John loved all New England sports teams, but the Bruins were his favorite. John was also an avid golfer, who enjoyed playing courses in our area with friends and family. All he needed was a pencil with an eraser and he was good to go. John enjoyed many family vacations to Cape Cod, with the usual stops at Captain Parkers and Mayflower beach, Cruises to Bermuda, trips to Mohegan Sun to play slots and video poker, and of course his favorite place, Disney World. John took his children to Disney every year as they grew up and then later turned Meg into a Disney lover. In his children’s youth, John coached baseball and basketball teams. Family was John’s most important focus in life. He was most proud of the years he spent working side by side with his son Chris. John loved the holidays, most especially Christmas, and special occasions when he could be with family. 

Family and friends are invited to calling hours, Thursday, June 27th from 4 pm to 7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral service will be celebrated Friday, June 28th at 11 am in the funeral home. Flowers may be sent or memorial remembrances in his name made to Vet’s Inc. 60 Grove Street Worcester, MA 01608.