Obituary

After 93 years of God’s blessings, James Edward Hughley quietly departed this life on October 22, 2014. This “young man” as he referred to himself, was deeply loved by those who referred to him as daddy, husband, granddaddy, brother, ‘Mr. Hughley’ and friend. His presence on this earth can never be replaced, as he was a very special man who daily demonstrated the importance of making the most out of the life that God had given him. He was a responsible man who took God’s work seriously. He worked every day to uplift and make a difference in his life, the lives of his wife and three daughters, and in his neighborhood. He shared all that he knew with as many as he could touch, continuously offering guidance to young Black men who were coming behind him. His commitment to all things that matter on this earth was evident in his daily living; a tribute to the God that he served and a legacy that will always be remembered.

Born James Edward Hughley on October 8, 1921 to Charlie Hughley and Pearlie Maynard Hughley in Macon, Georgia, James was raised in a loving Christian home steeped in the values and high expectations of his parents and grandparents, David and Amanda Maynard.

James reveled in his well-ordered life and childhood experiences. He always spoke with deep pride and affection for his hometown, Macon, where his father and mother led the family with their gentle demeanor and unwavering love. A dutiful son and talented student, James played varsity football at Hudson High School. He knew everyone and everyone knew him.

After graduation he moved to New York City to pursue a business career. During World War II, on November 14, 1942 he enlisted in the Army. James was a member of the 92nd Division, serving in Italy and North Africa. He interrupted his service to our country to come to Detroit on April 10, 1944 to marry the young woman who captured his heart in high school, the beautiful and intelligent Elizabeth Williams. He received an honorary discharge from the Army at Fort Dix, New Jersey in 1946.

Elizabeth and James made their sixty-year union complete in Detroit with the addition of three beloved daughters. In a household of all women, James became the axis around which they all circled and the compass they each relied upon. He was a loving husband and father.

From his earliest years as a child, James saw his primary role as a Christian. His love of God brought him great pleasure. Russell Street Missionary Baptist Church was his spiritual home for his entire life in Detroit. James was a member of the deacon board for over sixty years and chaired numerous committees and the Dynamo Club. He was a dedicated member, extending his service by taking communion to those who were unable to travel to church. In his early days in Detroit, he was involved as a member of the Westsiders, Masons and the Wykes Block Club.

Along with other men in the community, he opened several businesses in the 1950’s but none more successful than his barbershop. James was known as the “village barber.” Some say that he started the first youth training program in his neighborhood, providing jobs and apprenticeships to young men. For over fifty years he spent time building his community and forming relationships that created a thriving area where neighbors had deep pride. He opened his home and heart to a broad circle of friends.

James loved to take long road trips, and engage in lively talks on a large range of topics from politics, business, religion, education and sports. Even though he spent time in New York cheering for the Yankees, he loved the Detroit Tigers.

Several days ago, on his 93rd birthday October 8, 2014, he received special greeting from President Barack Obama commemorating his 93 year milestone. Today, we celebrate his vibrant and lasting legacy, illuminated by the power of his passion for Jesus Christ.

Preceding him in death was his beloved wife, Elizabeth, brother Frank and sisters Mattie, Gertrude, Pearlie and Dorothy.

He is survived by his three daughters, Venita Creasey, Linda Gillum and Karen Williams; devoted son-in-law, Roderick Gillum; two sisters Margaret Braswell and Julia Rhodes; eight grandchildren Shayla, Trishawn, Denisha, Brandon, Damirius, Christine, Aaron and Bria; three great grandchildren, two great-great grandsons and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

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