William Howard (Bill) Hughes, 84, a life-long resident of Center, Texas, passed peacefully into eternity on Sunday, April 12, 2026, in Lufkin, TX while surrounded by his family.

Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. Bro. Ozay Ford will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.

Bill was born on July 16, 1941, in Center, Texas, to the late Alto Hughes and Dorothy Idealia Ramsey Hughes. After graduating from Center High School, he attended Texas A&M University, where he earned a BBA in Accounting, graduating in May 1964. Following his university studies, Bill honorably served his country in the United States Air Force during the Viet Nam conflict.

Upon returning from his military service, Bill enjoyed a successful career in the financial sector for many years. Later in life, he obtained his broker's license and began a new chapter in real estate. At the time of his death, he was a member of the staff at Town and Country Real Estate of Center, TX. A man of faith, Bill and his wife Gwen were devoted, and long-time members of Saint Mark Methodist Church in Center.

Bill was preceded in death by both his parents and his beloved wife, Gwen, who passed away in November 2025.

He is survived by his brother-in-law, Frankey Fitzgerald, his niece, Chelsea Fitzgerald, and his nephew, Michael Fitzgerald. He also leaves behind three great-nieces, one great-nephew, and a host of cousins, including Shannon Ramsey, Benny Ramsey, Evelyn Chapman Grace, Randy Ramsey, Kelly Ramsey Plunkett, Edna Smith, Jana Tanton, and Wanda Stafford; and special friend, Liz Adams.

Pallbearers will be Michael Fitzgerald, Gerardo Garcia, Chris Watlington, James “Bubba” Lee, Ronnie Adams, Matthew Mettauer, Shannon Ramsey, and Johnny Covington. Honorary pallbearers will be Joe Bill Mettauer, Robbie Williams, Donnie Adams, and Michael Adams.

The family would like to thank Misty/Mitzi Stratton for her devotion and care during Bill’s final days.