Brian J Hughes

Brian J. Hughes, 76, of Flagstaff, Arizona, beloved husband of Audrey Hughes, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, after a long battle with prostate cancer. Brian was born in Bay Shore, New York on January 24, 1950 to the late Joseph and Virginia Day Hughes. He also lived in Oxford, New York and Douglas, Wyoming, before moving to Flagstaff, Arizona in 1984,

Brian graduated from Bay Shore High School in 1968 and attended Farmingdale State University in New York. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1970 to 1972 after being drafted during the Vietnam era. Stationed at Camp Lejeune, he attained the rank of Corporal before his honorable discharge.

Following his military service, Brian began his telecommunications career as a cable splicer with New York Telephone. He later continued his career with Mountain Bell in Douglas, Wyoming and eventually retiring from Mountain Bell/Qwest in Flagstaff, Arizona, where he built many lifelong friendships with colleagues.

Brian enjoyed watching sports and cheering on his favorite New York teams the Nicks, Rangers and Buffalo Sabres always hoping to see them win a championship. He also loved fishing, especially occasional trips to the Colorado River and a memorable trout fishing trip in Panguitch, Utah in June 2025 with his friend Walter. An avid outdoorsman, Brian enjoyed hunting deer and elk for many years. In 2025, he finally decided to apply for a bull elk tag and had a successful hunt in October of that year his final hunt. He was known for faithfully reminding his hunting buddies about application deadlines for seasonal hunts.

Brian was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Erin, and his niece Shannon. He is survived by his loving wife, Audrey; his sons, Kevin (Wende), Conor and Colin; his daughter Nora (Ray); his grandchildren, Tatum, Oakley, Emma and Liam; and his sister Maureen (Bob). He is also survived by one niece, two nephews, one grandniece, three grandnephews, eleven first cousins residing in Buffalo, New York, and many dear friends.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Maggie’s Hospice Care for their compassionate support and care.

In accordance with Brian’s wishes, there will be No Celebration of Life only a Funeral Mass. Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass on Wednesday June 3 at 10:30 am at Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary Church, 16 W Cherry St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001.

Burial services for family and friends will follow at 12:30 pm at Camp Navajo in Bellemont, Arizona.