Vincent Smith Hughes was welcomed into heaven on April 7, 2023. He was born on November 17, 1940 in Orlando, Florida to Harry C and Pauline Hughes, and grew up in College Park with his brother David. He attended Princeton Elementary, Memorial Junior High, and graduated from Edgewater High School in 1959 and was later inducted to EHS Hall of Fame.
After graduating, he went to Florida State University where he was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity. He left college for one year to work at his family business, Hughes Supply, and then joined the US Air Force Reserves. He returned to FSU and graduated in 1964. Vincent was a Golden Chief and passionate about his beloved Seminoles.
After college, he began his career at Hughes Supply in Orlando. He was an integral part of the company until his retirement in 2006. Vincent served on the Board of Directors and was Vice President of the Electrical Utilities division.
He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Orlando for over 40 years, serving as an elder and ushering the 11pm Christmas Eve Service. Known for his generous spirit, many local and national charities could count on him. He was kind, patient, and humble and his word was his bond.
Vincent had a commitment to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida that spanned a lifetime. As a boy, he and his brother attended the original Boys Club. They spent many happy hours engaged in team sports, savoring the camaraderie and mentorship the Club provided. As an adult, He was an active board member in the 1980s and 90s, giving hundreds of hours of professional guidance and volunteer service. In 2017, a naming gift by the Hughes Family provided a new Boys & Girls Club in the Parramore neighborhood.
Born the son of avid golfers, Vincent enjoyed a lifetime on the links. Times spent on the course with friends and family are treasured memories, and he, his brother, and many friends loved the many fishing tournaments in the Bahamas and off the east coast of Florida.
If you were loved by Vincent, you knew you were love unconditionally. Family and friends alike will attest to that. Known as Poppy to his grandchildren, he was always planning fun times and activities to enjoy with each of them. From Disney Cruises to Highlands family vacations, the memories will be in our hearts forever.
Vincent is survived by his wife of 56 years Jacqueline; son Kevin (Dana); daughter Megan (Eric); and his Grandchildren, Alex, Rebecca, Harrison, Hadley, Walker, and William.
There will be a Memorial Service on Wednesday, April 26, 11am, First Presbyterian Church of Orlando. The service will be streamed at fpco.org/funeral