Waynard Ray Hughes, 77, of Somerset, passed away Monday, September 22, 2025, at the Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. He was born in Benham, KY on September 1, 1948, to the late Claude and Nellie Henson Hughes. He served his country in the United States Army and is a Vietnam veteran. Waynard loved his family deeply and lived his life with kindness, always offering a helping hand and a generous heart to others. Some of his favorite pastimes included tending to his garden, casting a line while fishing, picking blackberries, and enjoying a good game of cards on the computer.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Nellie Henson Hughes, and a grandson, Treston Hughes

He leaves to mourn his passing his children, Charles Hughes and wife, Patricia, of Hazard; Hunter Hughes of Somerset; Justin Fitzpatrick of Whitesburg; a brother, William Hughes of South Carolina; two sisters, Dorothy Elliott and Patricia Huffman, both of South Carolina; grandchildren, Landon Hughes of Partridge; Justice, Justin, Arionna, and Porsha Fitzpatrick, all of Whitesburg; and a host of nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

A special thank you throughout the years to Dr. John Bruner, his wife and his children of Somerset.

Visitation will be Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Tri City Funeral Home from 12-2 pm. His Celebration of Life Service will begin at 2 pm with Jonathan Adams officiating. Harlan County Honor Guard will perform military honors at the Tri City Funeral Home.

Tri City Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Waynard Hughes.