Ross Hughes

ARITON.. James “Ross” Hughes, a beloved member of the Ariton community, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, October 16, 2023. He was born on Tuesday, April 19, 1938, in Ariton, Alabama, to Odie Maxwell Hughes and Mattie Frances Miller Hughes.

Ross was the co-owner and operator of Hughes Brothers Auto Parts in Ariton. Alongside his wife of fifty-eight years, Joyce Marie Blackmon Hughes, Ross built a successful business known for its friendly service and wonderful conversation.

Ross graduated from Ariton High School in 1957 and went on to receive an Associate's Degree in Auto Mechanics from Wallace College in Dothan.  Before pursuing a career in auto parts, Ross faithfully served in the United States Army Armored Tank Division after graduating from high school.

While Ross had many accomplishments throughout his life, he had diverse interests outside work as well. One of his greatest passions was racing cars, leading him to establish the Hughes Racing Team. From 1986 to 1989, they specialized in drag racing before transitioning into round track racing from 1991 to 1992.

In addition to racing, Ross found solace along the serene banks of Pea River behind his house. Fishing became one of his favorite pastimes as he spent countless hours enjoying the tranquility that nature provided.

Ross's warm heart and infectious laughter endeared him to all who knew him. His unwavering love for family was evident throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his wife Joyce Marie Blackmon Hughes, his father Odie Maxwell Hughes, mother Mattie Frances Miller Hughes, sister Edna Ruth Maulden, and brothers Don Hughes and Max Hughes as well as his grandchildren Joseph and Jacob Hughes.

Ross leaves behind a loving family who will continue to honor his legacy. His daughter Penny Wilson and husband Danny, daughter Connie Derhgawen and husband Sanjay, son Greg Hughes and wife Patricia, sister Kathryn Goodson and husband Gerald, as well as his grandson Derek and wife Heather, granddaughter Lauren and husband Thomas, grandson Nickolas and wife Emilee, grandsons Austin, Jay, and Bryce, and great-grandson Mason Ross will forever hold him in their hearts.

A graveside service to celebrate the remarkable life of Ross Hughes will be held on Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 1:00 P.M. at Mt. Olive Cemetery with Pastor Adam Carlee officiating. Friends and family are invited. The family will receive friends following the graveside service.