James Hughes
James “Jay” Richard Hughes of Boyers passed away April 30 at his home.
Jay was born June 2, 1935, in Waynesburg, Pa., to the late Richard Ely Hughes and the late Mary Smouse Hughes. Two adopted sons also preceded him in death.
At the age of 2, the family moved to Laguna Beach, Calif. He spent his youth on the local beaches and roaming the hills of early Orange County. The area would forever remain dear to his heart.
Jay was educated in Newport Beach and began his career in Hollywood. He became an acclaimed professional stuntman in deep sea diving and sky diving, having many movies and commercials to his credit; such as, Sea Hunt television series and Green Beret film.
In his later years, he returned to his birth state, living there until his recent death. He and his brother-in-law, Duke, operated bingo in Pittsburgh's Southside for many years. He also worked security for the Slippery Rock Campground in his later years.
Jay was an extraordinary man, devoted to his family and many close friends. Passionate for all things outdoors, he enjoyed the camaraderie of like sportsmen, hunting, fishing and skydiving. He continued skydiving, primarily for pleasure, and recorded over 1,000 jumps, the last being at the age of 78. He was a member of the United State Parachute Association D-14644.
Jay is survived by one daughter, Cynthia Hughes Litvin of Tamarac, Fla.; two granddaughters, Alexis and Lauren; a loving partner for many years, Vernie Sue Hilliard of Hilliards; two sisters, Carol Hughes Mueller of Irvine, Calif., and Martha Gayle Skinner of Aliso Viejo, Calif.; and a number of nieces and nephews.
HUGHES — Following the wishes of James “Jay” Richard Hughes, who passed away April 30, 2015, his body was cremated and his cremains will be scattered from the skies.His family and friends invite you to join them at his memorial at 5 p.m. Saturday at his home for an evening of reminiscing of a man that touched all of their lives.Arrangements were handled by William F. Young Funeral Home, West SunburyOnline condolences available at www.williamfyoungfh.com.
