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Ivor HUGH Obituary
HUGH, Ivor T.
Ivor T. Hugh, noted Radio and Television personality, 86, died peacefully on Sept.18 at The Caleb Hitchcock Health Center in Bloomfield. Ivor was born in London, England on May 1, 1927. He moved with his parents, Grace and Ralph Hugh, to the US at the age of ten. After serving in the US Merchant Marine during World War II, Ivor met his first wife in Htfd, Jean Rawlinson, now deceased, with whom he had three sons. In 1970, Ivor married Beth Hugh, expanding the family to include 6 stepdaughters and sons. Ivor loved spending time with his family, attending a never ending string of weddings, graduations, birthdays, and other family events. A special treat for Ivor was Boxing Day, when the family would gather to celebrate the Christmas season. He is survived by his wife Beth, 9 children,15 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Ivor's career encompassed many enthusiasms and touched many lives. He was most recently known for his 35 years at WJMJ where he created and delivered the "Good Evening, Good Music" show, bringing classical music to a dedicated audience. He retired just 2 months ago. He also produced ecumenical radio programs from many churches for broadcast on WJMJ. Prior to that Ivor spent numerous years bringing music and religious programming to Connecticut while working for the CT Council of Churches. Ivor especially enjoyed entertaining a younger audience. Many area residents will remember Flippy the Clown, a fixture on Channel 8 in New Haven and Channel 18 in Htfd, the "Ring Around The World" television show on Channel 30 with Beth as co-host and puppets Leroy the Duck, Curtis the Crocodile, and Beverly the Beaver, or his narrations of Children's concerts at the Bushnell with the Htfd. Symphony. Ivor also enjoyed teaching. He taught evening classes at the historic downtown YMCA, introducing people to classical music. Ivor taught a Communications course at the U. of Htfd. for several years, and also taught students the fundamentals of television at his Voices of The Unheard (VOTU) studio on the Campus of ASD in W. Htfd. Having touched so many people, Ivor will be remembered by many - for much. His family and friends will remember his passion for all things British, such as watching the BBC, monitoring the Royal Family, or his impressive collection of Britain's toy soldiers; his enjoyment of traveling within the US and overseas (Britain, China, India, Czechoslovakia, Israel), including being caught by Katrina at ground 0 in 2005; most importantly his optimism, kindness, and love.
A memorial service celebrating the life of Ivor Tout Hugh will be held on Oct 12, 3 p.m. at South Church in S. Glastonbury, CT. Memorial contributions may be made to the Caleb Hitchcock Health Center at Duncaster in Bloomfield, CT or a musical organization of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ivor HUGH
Sponsored by The family.
Robert Laviana
May 31, 2024
Eternally grateful to introducing me to years of classical music, including John Rutter and Hayley Westenra. His vocal delivery was always welcoming, soothing, endearing. Calls to his show were always received with utmost respect and courtesy. A quintessential gentleman.
R Scott
September 16, 2023
Such fond memories of his classical music presentations
A. B.
July 18, 2023
10 years late, but my condolences to Mr. Hugh's family. I was a high school student in the early 1990s and was usually up late doing homework. I always enjoyed listening to "Good Evening Good Music" while finishing my assignments. He had a great voice for radio and a fine taste in music. Mr. Hugh's show gave me an appreciation for classical music which I still have now 30 years later.
Renee Wall
March 19, 2021
Father of successful recording artist Grayson Hugh.
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2006-02-01 Hayley Westenra, Happy Face Flag, Rodney [in WJMJ]
Rodney Michele
May 2, 2014
Kristyn (Murphy) Brownell, Ivor, Rodney
Rodney Michele
May 2, 2014
Ivor, in the short time in which we worked together, became my good friend, mentor, and the type of man I had as a father. Ivor and I had fun, especially during the fundraising nights. I would try to break him up by having a big trash bag of varying hats that I would change when he looked down long enough. I placed smiley face stickers on the inside of all his VU pods and made him a smiley face flag. In 2005, I first saw Hayley Westenra's DVD performance from New Zealand on CPTV. Hayley was 16 on the DVD. I told Ivor that somehow I was going to meet Hayley and get her too come to WJMJ in Bloomfield for an interview. Ivor never doubted me for a second and said he is all for it, and go for it. On February 1, 2006 Hayley was in the studio bailling me out on my first ever interview, that is until Ivor returned and let Hayley eat me alive, but very politely. This was a 2 + hour interview Ivor and I also interviewed Kristyn (Murphy) Brownell. Ivor was surprised to learn of my "Dicky Duck" illustrated book I wrote in HS. Then when he and I crossed paths, there were literally two quacks [Leroy and Dicky] in the bldg. I had a heartattack in Oct 2007 and could not go back to WJMJ. I still well up when I think of my friend. Also, the date of the pulication of the notice in the Hartford Courant is my birthday. Rodney D. Michele
Randy Scott
November 27, 2013
I dearly loved listening to Ivor and his wonderful musical selections... did so for so many years. Can't believe he's gone. I will miss him greatly.
Chris Powell
November 24, 2013
I loved his work for many years and miss him much. He was a blessing to all of us.
Ray and Sally McMahon
October 21, 2013
Dear Rob and Lola, We are sorry for your loss, and praying for your family. Blessings,
Pamela Butterfield
October 11, 2013
Dear Beth - Blessings to you and your loved ones. What a special gentle man Ivor was - so talented, creative and giving. It was such an honor to work for three dynamic, ethical women many years ago. To this day, I appreciate and thank you, Betty Batchelder, and Ineke Bijlefeld for being such wonderful role models and mentors. Your graciousness and patience is remembered and still appreciated.
Wishing you love and healing today and always.
Love,
Pam
Marguerite Christie
September 27, 2013
I was saddened to hear the news but, I know he is in Heaven listening to beautiful music. I am grateful to have stumbled upon his morning program years ago and my kids grew-up listening to Music from Around the World and they would march around the dining room table with pots and pans when he played a daily march. He was always delightful to listen to and his kind words about his own family inspired me to be a better person.
1964-Dec 25th - Ken, Julia, Renee, Robin, and Holly
Holly Reames
September 27, 2013
Here's hoping each happy memory helps wash away the grief. With loving thoughts from your family in Texas, Holly (Alice and Oliver's daughter) and Michael
Michael Accordino
September 27, 2013
Ivor, my family and I will miss your show on WJMJ, your Donald Duck impersonation, and your wit and class. You led an impressive life. I'm glad we were able to witness some of it.
Joe Hann
September 26, 2013
Ivor,
Thank you for your time talking about radio with me. You were a gentleman and a kind spirit. Always,
Joe
September 26, 2013
I always enjoyed listening to Ivor and Peter on WJMJ when I drove to work each day. They made the trip a brighter time, particularly when Leroy spoke. In the evening to hear Ivor speak, "Good Evening, Good Music" ensured that I was about to have a pleasant and informative experience. Times have changed. My prayers are with you. Regina V. Southington
Olga Pannone
September 26, 2013
We love you, Ivor, up in Heaven now listening to the Music of the Spheres!
another "Flippy" Kid .....
Hector & Jamie Soto
September 25, 2013
Beth,
We are so sorry for your loss and we are keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. Ivor was such a sweet, inspiring, genuine individual who always lifted your spirits whenever you saw him. We send our deepest condolences.
Christine Kelley
September 25, 2013
Dear Beth,
I just learned of Ivor's passing today, 9/25 and want you to know that you've always been in my thoughts and prayers these past months, I recognize what an inspiration you and Ivor have been to me through your persistent strength, courage and positive attitudes.
As a member of Beth's early Saturday morning Qi Gong class, I bore witness to the spirited grace of this beautiful couple as they embraced life to the fullest without complaint. I am so lucky to have had the privilege to know Ivor. I will miss him dearly. Blessings to all of Ivor's family and friends and peace in knowing that he is blissfully with God.
Christine
Joel Witkiewicz
September 25, 2013
September 25, 2013
Back in the early 1990's Ivor Hugh would be on WJMJ in mornings with his good friend, Peter Durham. The music they shared ranged from Broadway Tunes to Her Majesty's Coldstream Guards. I have been a listener and fan of Mr. Hugh's programs since that time. I am sorry to hear of his passing.
September 24, 2013
Dear Rob, David and Grayson,
Karen posted your dad's obituary on facebook. I'm very sorry for your loss. He was so gracious, funny, knowledgeable and full of the joys of life. He shared his talents so freely with kids and adults alike. I'll never forget curling up in our easy chair to listen to his radio show on Saturday mornings. I always called it simply, "Program." I'm so glad I got to see him last September in South Glastonbury. His generosity never wavered in my presence. I hope you all find a measure of peace and joy as you reflect on your lives with your dad.
With good memories,
Lucy Morse
Bruce Boland
September 24, 2013
Ivor was a good guy. Generous and likable. My sincerest condolences to my old school chum Grayson at the loss of his dad.
September 24, 2013
I especially enjoyed Ivor when he had a morning segment on WJMJ playing "music from around the world", and of course, his "conversation" with "Leroy the Duck", always made me laugh! He will truly be missed. My sincere condolences to his family.
Marlene O'Neill
September 24, 2013
As part of the WJMJ family of listeners Ivor will be so missed! My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Marlene O'Neill
Dom Camisa
September 24, 2013
I thank GOD for having the honor of knowing you when you did a show at channel 8 called "THE EIGHT DAY".
Polly Carlin
September 23, 2013
Thank you Ivor Hugh,for the lovely memories. Your music, your insight, your knowledge, your voice...wonderful treasures you so gently shared.
To Lola, Love Christina (Fredrika)
Dee Micari
September 23, 2013
To the family of Ivor, especially Lola, I was so sad to read this. I listened faithfully every night to his magical resonant voice on Good Evening, Good Music and was lucky enough to catch his farewell broadcast two months ago sitting in my car in my driveway feeling so sad. My daughter was in "A Little Night Music" years ago with Lola and she sends her condolences also. My husband Dan, myself and Christina pray for all of you to remember all his goodness. Thanks for letting us listen for so long. Dee Micari
Opera at First Church, Windsor-August 2, 2008
Michael Taylor
September 23, 2013
I met Mr. Hugh a couple of years ago and was happy to tell him how much I enjoyed the Good Evening Good Music Program over many years. We thought he was a very nice, talented, person and the world is the worse for his passing.
David Larson
September 23, 2013
I grew up in West Hartford listening to Big Brother Bill and Leroy the Duck. Treasured memories!
Good-bye Mr. Hugh and Leroy----
Liz Bose
September 23, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the Hugh family. No words can express my thanks for the many, many hours of enjoyable listening that Mr. Hugh gave to me and to my family through the years. What a wonderful person.
Jamie Cook
September 23, 2013
Dave, my condolences on the death of your father. I met him once (at The Two Georges!), and he seemed very sweet.
Marjolijn Bijlefeld
September 23, 2013
My condolences to the family. When I think of your laughter- and love-filled home, I invariably also think of Ivor's army of tiny Hussars on the mantle. The little things you learn from someone can stay with you for a lifetime.
September 23, 2013
My prayers are with him all whos lives have been touched my this beautiful soul. Sandy Cook
Joe Ganci
September 23, 2013
From his wonderfully rich radio voice to his impeccable imitation of Donald Duck, Ivor embodied the distinguished gentleman while exuding the joy and vitality of a youth. My deepest condolences to Beth, Rob and the many family and friends who loved Ivor. His warmth and love will continue to live in all those that he met along the way.
Rev. Dr. Shelley D. Best
September 23, 2013
To Beth and family. My heart is full of joy and sorrow as I reflect on the many laughter filled moments I was blessed to share with Ivor, during the last decade as he produced our weekly radio programs for The Conference of Churches.
Ivor had a special gift of making me and everyone else he met, feel as if we were, "the best thing since sliced bread." He was a man of abundant love, optimism, hope and love. He made me a better person because of his generosity of Spirit. Thank you for sharing him with so many of us. He will be missed here on earth, but I am sure, he is delightfully sitting in the front row, listening intently and celebrating with the symphony of angels.
May God bless you and keep you as you miss his presence here on earth and await your reunion with him in eternity.
Nancy Swanson
September 23, 2013
Dear Dave and members of the Hugh family, On behalf of the wonderful Hall Class of '70, please accept our sincerest sympathy. What a gracious, loving man your dad was. He must have been to welcome our class into your home with open arms! In time may your wonderful memories replace your sorrow. Nancy Swanson and reunion committee members: Shelley Berkowitz Levy, Sandra Lebowitz Myers and Rich Castagno
Robert Rachlin
September 23, 2013
Ivor and I worked together at WCCC in the mid-50s. I recall a visit to his home during which he introduced me to the wonders of Gilbert & Sullivan. G&S became a lifetime passion of mine, and I learned many arias which I've shamelessly bellowed in the shower for years. While Ivor and I had a few telephone contacts during the intervening years, I deeply regret that by the time I finally got around to making a visit, it was too late. Rest in peace, old friend and mentor.
Bill Hennessey
September 23, 2013
Ivor was Music Director at WCCC-AM when I worked there and was always a smiling, cheerful presence. Simultaneously, he was a TV star as "Flippy, the Clown". Last year he recounted his illustrious career at a meeting of the Bunch Of Old Broadcasters (B.O.O.B.s) to the delight of a large crowd. He's a particularly memorable alumnus.
Beth & Ivor on Nov. 2007 - 75th anniversary of Unity Church of Hartford
Bonnie Rowe
September 22, 2013
My deepest condolences to Beth and all of the family. Ivor was a true gentleman who graced Unity of Greater Hartford with his presence. That is where I met Ivor and Beth. Many times I listened to Ivor's radio show on WJMJ, expanding my appreciation for classical music and knowledge of composers. May his light continue to shine in the hearts of thousands. May his family be comforted by a return of the love and respect he engendered in people everywhere.
Beth and Stephen Batchelder
September 22, 2013
To the Hugh and Bobbitt family, Our sincere condolences to you all. Beth and Ivor were great friends to my mother and father in law, Bob and Betty Batchelder. It was an honor to have been a small part of his life. I know know you all have great memories!
Maggy Scheessele
September 22, 2013
I want to express my deepest condolence to Ivor's wife and children. He was my communications professor in 1972 at U of. Hartford. He was one of the best professors that I had. It was not in the late 1998 that found ivor on the JMJ radio station. God bless him and thank you for sharing him with us! Maggy Scheessele, ps Beth , I was your show with Ivor on nbc 30 every week too. Thank you, maggy
September 22, 2013
I want to express my deepest condolence to Ivor's wife and children. He was my communications professor in 1972 at U of. Hartford. He was one of the best professors that I had. It was not in the late 1998 that found ivor on the JMJ radio station. God bless him and thank you for sharing him with us! Maggy Scheessele, ps Beth , I was your show with Ivor on nbc 30 every week too. Thank you, maggy
Al Goff
September 22, 2013
Ivor Hugh's unmistakeable voice and consummate knowledge of music will be missed by many. I met him in the 1970's with my Dad and last chatted with him at Grayson and Polly's wedding. Our deepest condolences to the entire Hugh family from the Goff family.
Brenda Kelley
September 22, 2013
What a beautiful life! I didn't know Ivor but I did listen to him on the radio as did my husband, Tom. And I grew to love his amazing daughter-in-law, Lola, while I was the state director of AARP in CT. I'm now convinced that Lola's beautiful life must have been strongly influenced by having such an amazing man as her father-in-law! My prayers and thoughts are with all the Hugh family during this sad time when you grieve but also celebrate and remember a beautiful life!
Robert J. Cummiskey
September 22, 2013
My best wishes to the family at this difficult time. Ivor was my Dad's best friend, and he was my sisters godfather. I did not know him that well, but if my father called him friend then he was a special person indeed.
an Ivor T. Hugh FAN
September 22, 2013
Loved listening to Ivor on the radio.
A true American & a true gentleman.
Larry Yother
September 22, 2013
What a great guy he was! If you called his radio show with a question, he wouldn't let you go until you were completely satisfied. I met him a few times at the convenience store and he always gave the impression he was happier to see me than I was to see him. I'd like to turn the calendar back about thirty years and have him around again.
Lynne Patnode
September 22, 2013
I know Ivor Hugh will be sorely missed. What a huge personality he was for the Greater Hartford Region...
Bob & Beth Hieronymus
September 22, 2013
Our condolences to Beth and the entire family. Ivor was a true friend, and I will always remember and cherish the many times we shared lunch together talking about our experiences, family, history, trains, music, radio, television, or just about any subject. In fact, Ivor had the gift to make every conversation an interesting and joyful experience. We will miss him.
Stanley Szczapa
September 22, 2013
I will truly miss hearing Ivor's voice on WJMJ. Good evening Good Music was a wonderful program that he did to inspire not only me but so many others to appreciate Classical Music. I will miss him. May he rest in peace.
Lee Gluck
September 22, 2013
Love and hugs are being sent to our friend, Rob and his whole family on the loss of their special Dad. Our prayers are with you all. Love, Lee and the whole Gluck family
Dianne & Peter Antos
September 22, 2013
Such a special man! Our love and prayers are with his family.
1950's child
September 22, 2013
When I was 4, Leroy the Duck was my daily morning friend, who told me my birthday present was hiding under my bed. God bless you, Leroy
September 22, 2013
Condolences and love from all the Perkins to the Hugh family. Keep the memories alive!
Leslie Schafer
September 22, 2013
I grew up knowing him as Uncle Ivor. I adored him. He was always entertaining me with his Donald Duck voice never tiring of my asking for more. I will remember him with great joy in my heart. David, Rob, Grayson, and to all his extended family, I send my deepest sympathy out to you in this time of loss and sadness. May you find peace in knowing he truly lived and left you all a wonderful legacy.
Noreen DeDomenico
September 22, 2013
Sorry for your loss. I hope you find peace at this very sad time. Ivor will always be looking down and watching over you.
Jesse Campbell
September 22, 2013
I was a student in Mr. Hugh's Communication class in the early 70's. I got to know him and visited with him at his home on Warrenton Ave. He was a class act. I enjoyed listening to his radio shows on WJMJ. Whenever I was in town I would always call and chat with him. I will truly miss him. I thank God for allowing us to cross path. My condolences to Beth and the family. Peace be Still.
Jo Matos
September 22, 2013
My condolences to the entire Hugh family. My thanks to Mr. Hugh for his decades of enlightening, educating and entertaining the people of Connecticut.
Jeff Holland-Lupton
September 22, 2013
To the Hugh Family - many prayers and so much love and respect for your entire family during this time of grief. All of you have my deepest sympathy.
Carol Chase
September 22, 2013
Rob, I am so sorry for your loss. I enjoyed listening to your dad on the radio. He is dancing and singing with the angels in Heaven now.
A 1950's Kid
September 22, 2013
Farewell, Flippy.
September 22, 2013
Left very big shoes to fill.... glad I found you on WJMJ years ago and so enjoyed your classics on Good Evening, Good Music... all your listeners will miss you. Love and prayers to you and your family.
Reinie Cyr, Somers, CT
Suzanne Goldberg
September 22, 2013
Beth,
We worked together at Church Homes in the late 70's. My thoughts and prayers are with.
September 22, 2013
Who will every be able to fill the big shoes you left behind... Glad I met you on WJMJ many years ago and loved the classical Good Evening Good Music. My love and prayers go out to you and your family.
Reinie Cyr, Somers, CVT
Jay Adams
September 22, 2013
Ivor Hugh will be missed by many. I remember his and his wife's television shows fondly. My sympathy goes out to the family.
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