John McKinley Hughes

John McKinley Hughes, 58, native of El Paso, TX  passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on Thursday, December 28, 2023.

John was born on May 19, 1965 in El Paso to Lester and Myrna Hughes who preceded him in heaven. As a 1983 Parkland H.S. graduate, John enjoyed his time participating on the varsity football team as a defensive back earning All-District Honors.

After serving as a manager at Putney’s and Bobby Q’s, John decided to pursue a career with the El Paso Electric Company where he challenged himself to learn new skills and advance in position over his 30 year career.

John was most described as a devoted family man and dedicated his life to putting their needs and happiness above his own. He was married to his loving wife, Cheryl, of 31 years. His unwavering commitment to be present, provide guidance, and unconditional love for his daughters was evident to anyone who knew him. He proudly welcomed his son-in-law into the family as the son he had always hoped for. Being “Papa” and spending time with his two grandsons was his greatest joy in life. He enjoyed all things family time related including spending weekends at sports tournaments, playing games into the early morning hours, and having a good bbq. #1Team

John’s main passion was coaching his daughters and serving in his community as a dedicated youth sports coach, most notably the NE Tornadoes girls softball (1993-2003), NE Classic Tornadoes girls softball (2003-2014) and Cheetah girls soccer team (2003-2014)-winning the Texas State Championship in 2008. He is regarded warmly by his athletes and is remembered as an enthusiastic mentor who was generous with his time and patiently emphasized fundamentals, taught life lessons, and turned a team into a family.

John is survived by his wife, Cheryl Hughes, three daughters, Janene Hildebrand (Aaron), Marylee Hughes, and Kylie Hughes, grandsons, Avery and Jaxon Hildebrand, siblings, “Chuck” Hughes (Deidra), Terry Hughes (Kimmy), Nell Williams (Robert), Michelle Goldman (Stephen), and Kathleen Hughes, and several nieces and nephews who will miss his intentional check-ins.

Services are as follows:

Visitation & Funeral Service- Saturday, January 06, 2024 2:00-6:00pm at Sunset Funeral Homes-Northeast, 4631 Hondo Pass Drive.

Celebration of Life Sunday, January 07, 2024 1:00-4:30pm Wayne Thornton Community Center at Grandview 3134 Jefferson Ave, El Paso, TX 79930

Burial Service on Monday, January 08, 2024 at 10:30am Restlawn Cemetery, 4848 Alps Dr., El Paso, TX 79904.

In lieu of flowers: Please donate to your local youth sports teams.