Cliff Hughes

Cliff Hughes, 68, of Ellicott City, MD, passed away on September 18, 2025, after an 11+ year battle with cancer. Cliff faced it with unshakable positivity and quiet strength. His family takes comfort in knowing that he is now at peace.

Born in Baltimore, Cliff moved to Howard County as a teenager and graduated from Mt. Hebron High School in 1975. At 15, he began working in restaurants-riding his bike to Papillon, where he washed dishes. It was there he met Fernand Tersiguel, who later invited him to join Chez Fernand. During this time, Cliff discovered his love of and skill for cooking- his family and friends will miss all his legendary dishes, but they will be lovingly imitated for years to come.

In 1986, Cliff joined the Crab Shanty, where he served as General Manager for 25 years. He was described by many as the "glue" that held the Shanty together. Cliff was admired by staff and customers alike, mentoring countless employees and always leading by example. He knew the value of hard work & dedication.

Beyond his professional life, Cliff gave deeply of his time and talents. He volunteered for Gilchrist's "Taste of Howard County" for 25+ years, even chairing the event for several years. With his help, the fundraiser has grown significantly and will celebrate its 40th anniversary this year! Later in his career, he worked for Gilchrist in development.

Still, what Cliff cherished most was his family. He married his soulmate, Kathy (O'Donnell), in 1982, and together they spent 44 years in what most would call the "honeymoon phase."  Cliff devoted himself to her happiness and they were truly best friends. They loved cooking together, traveling to beaches (especially Anguilla), and simply enjoying each other's company-even saying that the COVID lockdown was a "piece of cake."

Cliff was also a devoted father to Casey and Kevin, remembered most for being patient & kind. His children recall Sunday grocery store trips where he let them ride under the cart, the elaborate train garden he built every Christmas Eve, his cheers at every lacrosse game, the extravagant school lunches he packed, and his habit of volunteering to cater any of their events. His love of the Orioles and Ravens lives on in Casey, while his passion for fine wine and gourmet food lives on through Kevin.

In retirement, Cliff embraced his favorite role as -"Papa" to Avery and Connor. From the day they were born, he and Kathy cared for them twice a week, right up until shortly before his passing. He absolutely loved being a grandfather and would always say that they were his greatest joy. In return, anyone could see from a mile away what "Papa" meant to Avery and Connor.

Cliff is survived by his wife, Kathy; his sons Casey Hughes (Bethany Natoli) of Severna Park, MD, and Kevin Hughes of Washington, D.C.; his beloved grandchildren, Avery and Connor Hughes; his sister, Lyn Arsenault of Aberdeen, MD; his faithful dog, Gracie; and countless family and friends who loved him dearly.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Cliff's memory to the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation (www.netrf.org).

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 8th at 4 PM at the Howard County Conservancy located at 10520 Old Frederick Rd. The family would love to see anyone whose life was touched by Cliff!