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Charles "Terry" Hughes

Charles Hughes Obituary

HUGHES, CHARLES "TERRY"
Entered into rest on Dec. 13, 2002 at the age of 54 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Terry was born on July 7, 1948 in Hollywood, CA. He moved to Sacramento in 1968, obtaining his B.S. in June of 1972 from CSU Sacramento. While there, he was Class President and pledged with the TKE Fraternity. In 1974, he began a long and successful real estate career, establishing Hughes Properties and Pacific Meridian Real Estate. Terry was active in politics all of his life. This involvement led him to becoming Ronald Reagan's Advance Man while governor of California, the College Delegate to California College Republican's Convention and Regional Director of Young Voters for the President. He was also a founding member of the E.I.R. Group. He was extremely generous with his time as a mentor for many young people throughout his adult life. Terry had a passion for snow skiing and water skiing, as well as golf, but his biggest passion in life was for his two sons, Anthony, age 20, and Ryan, age 15. He is also survived by his parents, Charles and Jackie; brother Brandon; and sister Diana; all of Sacramento. A celebration of Terry's life will be held on Thursday, December 19, 2002 at 10am at Presentation Parish, 3100 Norris Ave. Reception immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Francis House, 1422 C St., Sacramento, CA 95814.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee from Dec. 14 to Dec. 17, 2002.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Hughes

Sponsored by Gina McNay, a friend and longtime loyal employee..

22 Entries

Nockie Taylor

February 3, 2024

I am looking through some old letters and information I had in a box, and I found a note from Terry. He and I worked together on the committee to a reelect President Nixon in 1972. I just remember him as being very nice and a hard worker, and very professional and accomplished. It´s interesting that I remember him because it was so long ago, 51 years ago. But he was an extraordinary person. I was sad to see that he has passed.
Blessings to his remaining family members.
Sincerely, Nockie Taylor

MATTHEW SIKICH

January 6, 2003

DEAR FAMILY and FRIENDS of TERRY , I am writing to share my deepest sympathy and sorrow to YOU in the loss here on Earth of Your Beloved TERRY! I had the Opportunity to meet and know TERRY only briefly in the Fall of 2001 when I was assisting TERRY's Friend Bobbi Baldwin in her business. TERRY was truly one of GOD's own ANGELS, whose "LIGHT" and LOVE seemed to Shine So Bright in His "RADIANT" Smile and KIND Words! All of YOU have been So Blessed to have known him for such a long time. For ME, it was such a Blessings to have even met and known TERRY for the very short time I did! TERRY had the ability, charm, and the Grace of a True GENTLEMAN to WELCOME You into his Life, and share The Warmth of His Generous Personality! I AM SO Grateful to have MET TERRY! I can't help but Think that TERRY would be One of the Men that GOD would chose to GREET US as we too Enter HIS KINGDOM! To have met TERRY is to have Experienced that GOD's LOVE does SHINE Through Others to US! TERRY, I THANK YOU, again, for Your SMILE and "LIGHT"! I feel fortunate to have met YOU! To TERRY's FAMILY and FRIENDS, MAY TERRY's PRESENCE and SPIRIT Comfort YOU in missing him so! MAY GOD BLESS YOU and Give YOU Strength until YOU are RE-United With TERRY again in HEAVEN! Matthew Sikich

Faye James

December 24, 2002

To the Hughes Family and Friends – I recently learned of Terry’s passing and it has been very difficult for me to accept that he is gone. I knew Terry for approximately 3 years, and I am heartfelt blessed that he had crossed my path and God has given me the opportunity to have known him. He was a wonderful loving, caring person and a perfect gentleman, who loved life and who loved his sons Anthony and Ryan so dearly. I will forever hold the friendship we had close to my heart and will miss him tremendously. My thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones.

Brother Brandon Hughes

December 22, 2002

I started life with Terry by my side. He was exactly 5 ½ years older than me. As kids, we had no T.V. or computers. So we built forts and played army. We played the piano. We learned to body surf the waves in Southern California. We’d ride horses at our father’s ranch. On boat trips to Catalina Island, we’d fish. When we got sea sick, we’d go to the front of the boat and throw cherry bombs at the sharks.

As young children, we spent our summers at Lake Tahoe. We’d hiked down the falls at Emerald Bay and once caught 27 snakes. We brought them back to Long Beach. One escaped in the car and Mom sat for 9 hours with her feet up off the floor. When I was 4, Terry taught me how to play a game called Monopoly. We would play for hours. At this early age, Terry knew what he wanted to do. He wanted to buy property and collect rent. Every night, our family would sit down together for dinner. I remember Terry and Dad talking business every night. I would listen and learn.

Until my brother had his first cancer surgery 7 years ago, I took many things for granted. Terry gave me a new appreciation for the simple pleasures of life. To eat a pizza, smell a rose or simply laugh.

No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he has given. Terry gave anonymously to many unfortunate families without anyone knowing it. My brother believed in giving back by sharing his knowledge. He saw people’s potential and tried to inspire them to do great things.

Whether at his office or at home, Terry’s door was always open. And up until the day he died, despite his eyes swollen shut and his ability to communicate nearly gone, he still welcomed visitors. He loved people. He especially loved being with his two sons, Ryan and Anthony.

During Terry’s entire battle with cancer, he never felt sorry for himself. He kept his positive attitude all the way to the end. That is how Terry lived his life.

I will miss Terry’s enthusiasm. But Terry’s ability to inspire and teach will continue in my heart.

My brother has entered into a new placed and his guiding light will always shine for me.

Ruby Rogers

December 21, 2002

Dear Family & Friends of Terry Hughes,

I am extremely saddened by Terry’s leaving us. I did not realize that his battle with cancer was going on after so many years. I have known him for 25 years, which I now realize was half of his brief life. He was property manager of Professional Village Medical & Professional Building during the entire 23 years of my ownership.

He was so dependable, knowledgeable, considerate and adept with dealing with all people and all problems. I admired him greatly and cared a lot for him. There is surely a brighter star in the Heavens now, and every clear star-filled night I will look for it and think of him.

[email protected]

maria & Alexandra Podesta

December 19, 2002

Terry - I only met you the once and that was 10 years ago when I was holidaying in Sacramento. I was visiting your brother Brandon whom I have known for the past 23 years. It was lovely to have met you and I really enjoyed our day water-skiing on Brandons boat and the night we had dinner together at Brandons home. My deepest sympathy for your family as I know how much they loved you and how much they will miss you especially your brother Brandon who loved you dearly and held you in highest respect. I only wished you would have met your niece Alexandra as I am sure you both would have got on tremendously. Goodbye Terry and May you rest in Peace.

Lisa Jaime-Silverman

December 19, 2002

Terry,

Yes, I too was quite stunned about your untimely death. I dated you for only a short time, shortly after your divorce (2nd). I know you wanted more out of the relationship but I felt you needed to spread your wings. I appreciate the time shared with you and Ryan at your home, club, golf range, our children's basketball games (Salvation Army League), Folsom Lake, and in Lake Tahoe. My sons really did enjoy your company. Although our lives went in different directions I only wished you the best and enjoy life to the fullest. I am sure that you did! I am only sorry that you did not share your illness with me. You will always have a special place in my life and I am blessed to have had you in my life for such a short time.

My heart goes out to your family, especially Ryan and Anthony. Remember Ryan and Anthony you had a WONDERFUL father. He will always be there with you.

Jan Derrah

December 19, 2002

They say that all meetings occur for a meaning and not by chance.I met Terry just a short 2.5 years ago, even though we both had resided in this area for greater than 20 years. Odd as it was, that it took so long to meet even though we attended the same social functions, had many of the same friends and I even knew Brandon, his brother...fate kept us apart until that chance encounter.

The timing couldn't have been more perfect. I met Terry after many years of giving up on the dating scenario. Terry taught me to release my fears and insecurities associated with relationships. He showed me that I was, "indeed", worth loving.He was always kind and compassionate. He was sensitive and caring. He was gentle, yet, strong.He gave my smile...meaning.

Terry didn't level with most regarding the severity of his horrific diagnosis. Perhaps he knew he couldn't B.S. me knowing my background in ENT nursing.I recall him sitting in my living room 2 years ago, sharing his concerns but demonstrating his strength of all he had endured and knowing that the worse was still to come. He was brave and always kept a positive outlook, no matter how grim.

One time shortly after we parted our romantic relationship..I had been to my dentist when the dentist discovered a growth on the bottom of my tongue. Needless, to say, I was very frightened. The day I was to have it removed and biopsied...I arrived at the doctor's office only to be greeted by Terry and him saying "I couldn't let you go thru this alone." The growth was benighed, but his concern and thoughtfulness was prolific. This was only one of the few times he was always there for me.

Many a time, Terry would call me his "angel". I truly believe that it is Terry that is the angel. There is a saying "Angels appreciate things about you that you thought no one else noticed." Terry recognized the strengths in everyone he met.

To all who knew and loved Terry, remember that he is no longer in pain and we will all be reunited with him and his love someday. His physical being may no longer be with us, but his memory and spirit will live in our hearts and minds forever.

Rest in peace, My Sweet Man. I will miss you terribly.

Brandon Hughes

December 18, 2002

As kids, we had no computers or T.V. So Brother Terry and I would build forts and play army. We built sand castles, we played duets on the piano. When I was 4, Terry taught me how to play a game called Monopoly. We would play all day. At this early age, Terry knew what he wanted to do. He wanted to someday own property and collect rent. Every night, our family would sit down together for dinner. I remember Terry and my father talking business every night at dinner. I would sit there and listen while Mom complained, "Do we have to talk about business every night?"

No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave. Terry gave his time and inspiration to so many people. I recently discovered that he was secretly helping poor families without their knowledge. He would buy whatever that family needed and have a "front man" deliver all the goods to the family without anyone knowing who it was.

During my brother's 7 year battle with cancer, he never felt sorry for himself. He kept his positive attitude all the way to the end. That is the way he lived. That is what he leaves us.

Bobbi Baldwin

December 18, 2002

Terry and I dated from March 2001 to Jan. 2002. We saw each other every week and talked a lot. In that time I learned so much about his life. I saw a man that loved his children and family and strove to find even more to make better in his life. We went through 'Divorce Recovery' together and talked a lot about relationships wants in life and dreams.

What I felt from Terry was genuine unconditional love of those in his life. Those who were lucky enough to be close to him, to share his inner feelings and thoughts. I feel blessed to have been one of them. I learned about many of his friends and family ... everyone he spoke of with such positivity and care. His wisdom always came from passion for life. He was a person who truly knew what it felt to be passionate about life.

Early this year we met for lunch. He was faced with a meeting with a hospital person who, from what Terry told me, wanted to take his positive outlook away. I don't think that anyone could have done that. Terry had this inner power of seeing things in the best light. I think that light will always shine in those who's lives he touched.

Terry I will miss you. We had a lot of fun, thank you for letting me share in your life. I am still waiting to see your watercolors. You still make me smile. And by the way ... as we talked ... if you are out there ... I am waiting for a sign.

Kay Madewell

December 18, 2002

Terry and I met at a Toys for Tots Christmas Dance in the Railroad Museum in Old Sac. He was with his friend Larry and I remember how handsome Terry looked from across the room. We met, me danced and from that day on we had a friendship that will remain always.

He always supported any new effort I accomplished. We celebrated my new jobs. He helped me decorate my new office at the Doubletree hotel. It was the best looking office.:) :)

He had so much patience teaching me golf. We hiked around Emerald Bay one of his favorite places. And he always made me feel special. He was a great cook!! We had so many good times together. Our trip to Mexico, Lake Tahoe, and a very special trip when he surprised me when he made arrangements to stay at a lighthouse in San Francisco. He knew I had a passion for lighthouses and I wanted to stay at one..So for my birthday, he suprised me and made my dream come true.

We had dated for 2 years and when we went our separate ways we still remained friends and communicated by phone and e-mail. I am going to miss Terry very much and he will always have a special place in my heart and he knew that. I am still trying to get use to the fact I won't be talking to him any more, a dear friend who gave me many wonderful memories.

My prayers are with his sons Ryan and Anthony and his parents, brother and sister. Thank you for being so kind to me.

God Bless all of you.. And Terry may you have an angel by your side always.

Kay Madewell

Randy Fox

December 18, 2002

To the entire Hughes family my deepest condolences. Terry was, as with the rest of the Hughes family, a wonderful person to have known. As my cousin, I was fortunate to spend quality time with him and learn from him many things. Probably the most important thing I learned from him was the art of thinking positivley. This attitude seemed to exude from him, and brighten any situation.

My memories will always be of us waterskiing, bumper pool playing, crayfish fishing, and enjoying the wonderful fireplace with family and friends at Lake Tahoe.

He will be truley missed!

Cousin Randy

Deanie Guerin

December 18, 2002

In Rememberance of Charles "Terry" Hughes let us think of "Faith" as the act of believeing in something for which there is no proof. Who is the one who must do the believing? Of course it is us now. We are the friends and family that must embrace the loss of a dear friend; a person to so many that became his extended family. "What is real is not what we see with our eyes but what we feel in our hearts" I knew you well Terry Hughes, 17 years of warm hugs never a time when your warmth didn't light up a room or stimulate enormous smiles. I will continue to feel your presence as well as honor you with good, healthy progressive loving thoughts. When you earn those wings; please be patient with us, guide us well from above and keep sending those Terry Hughes Hugs! I will always keep you close in my thoughts & heart! (Photo of Jan Derrah, Terry Hughes and Deanie Guerin)

Gina Ramirez

December 17, 2002

Dear Family and Friends of Terry,

In the short time I knew Terry I felt honored to be in his company. I met him because of his friendship with some of my friends and he always made me feel as if I had been one of the gang for years. Once he was on a date with my friend Jan to the Auburn Black and White Ball and he took me along so I wouldn't have to go alone ... dateless ... he loved having two dates!

He definitly had a passion for fun and he had abundant energy ... he was active and dedicated to sports and traveling and I loved hearing about his trips skiing and with his family. I know he will be with us Thursday and that he is in a peaceful, painless place. This is what we all would wish for our loved ones and though he fought a good fight to stay, it was forseen that he spend eternity watching over the loved ones he left behind. My thoughts are that he is enjoying the show below ...

Terry Shariro

December 17, 2002

Terry and I dated at a time in my life when I needed a positive influence. Best of all is that we were able to continue our friendship.I helped him on several decorating projects and enjoyed his appreciation. Many of you will think of him on a golf course in Heaven, but I picture him at a buffet filling up on desserts. Terry I will miss your e-mails. I look at my buddy list and your name is there but you're not. I believe in Heaven and I know you're there. Terry I will miss you and I look forward to seeing your eyes light up and get big when you see me in Heaven.

jerry bellmore

December 17, 2002

I will miss our short conversations we had in your office when i would visit my daughter Gina. I always appreciated the opportunity you gave Gina some years ago. I know she learned so much about real estate while working for you, but most importantly she learned about life and dealing with a wide spectrum of people. Thank you, Terry, for letting us both be part of your life.

Larry McCarty

December 17, 2002

To the Hughes Family and his many, many Friends,

Over the thirty short years that I've known him, we went through many trials and tribulations together. He was always up beat about everything that he did and had a fantastic positive attitude about life. I always looked forward to our weekly lunches--and I always felt better after I left. He had that way about him. I certainly wasn't ready for him to go, even though I thought that I was prepared. I was very proud that he considered Rick and me as brothers. His mind was sharp until the end. Just the day before he passed on, we were discussing real estate deals and he was still positive that he was going to beat it. He had become a part of the fabric of my life and I will miss him always.

Brian Fox

December 17, 2002

To my Cousin Terry, I will miss you as you are one of the nicest people I have ever had in my life. I wish that we were close as when we were younger. I know you are in peace and enjoying Momma Cookie's baking and cooking. You will be missed but always loved. Love, your cousin Brian

Gina McNay

December 17, 2002

I have worked for Terry at Pacific-Meridian Realty since 1990. Over the past 12 years, I developed a close friendship with Terry. He was so much more to me than my "boss". He was my friend, my mentor, a father figure, a confidant, and a leader that I could always count on.

I learned many lessons from working so closely with Terry over the years, but most of all I learned the importance of hard work, dedication, and ambition.

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others; to leave the world a little better; whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is the meaning of success".

Terry you were very successful at so many things, and in so many ways.

I miss you already, and I want you to know that I appreciate everything you have done for me.

Gina McNay

Anthony Hughes

December 17, 2002

From my perspective, as his son,

Terry Hughes was high spirited and fun.

He knew politics, real estate, and business.

Him teaching us these lessons we now miss.

He would teach us through fun and games,

Until the end he had the dames.

Ryan and I are so appreciative and glad,

To have had such a high spirited and fun dad.

He would have made the best grandfather. One of his many lessons that will live on was the understanding of the value of each dollar.

Peter Laurendeau

December 15, 2002

To friends and family of Terry Hughes- I was stunned today to learn of Terry's untimely passing. I saw him about one month ago at a Community Council meeting regarding the proposed development of property on Fulton/Larkspur; as usual, he spoke eloquently at this meeting and was very receptive and warm to my family and I afterwards. Terry and I met while playing co-ed softball for a team captained by Rick Gooding, one of his close friends. He was a competitive player, always upbeat and positive; an asset to the team. Besides participating with him at many community events here in Sacramento, we shared some memorable weekends skiing at Homewood and apres partying at their home in Tahoe. I knew him to be generous, sincere and loyal. I will miss him and say that my thoughts are with you.

Rick Gooding

December 14, 2002

To the Hughes Family and Friends:

Terry really was a unique person, his enthusiasm for life, the joy he found in everything, his kindness, warmth, patience and ability to find beauty in everyone. Some of the best times in my life were spent with him in Tahoe, Hawaii, Christmas morning and Thanksgiving dinners in his home. He was so warm and kind he took me right into his family, he really was more then just a friend, he was like my brother. I already miss him. I am sure he is up in heaven right now checking everything out so when we join him he will grab our hands with his usual enthusiasm and joyfully show us all around!

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