David Hughes

David Arthur Hughes, known with affection as Hughesy to his close circle, left us on February 5, 2024, at the age of 74. He passed away at home surrounded by his loving family. Born in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, on July 22, 1949, to Charles and Lorraine Hughes, David's life was a testament to the qualities of loyalty, generosity, laughter, and love.

David was a man of many passions, but none quite compared to his dedication to teaching. He spent 35 years shaping young minds at Boylston Elementary School, where he served as a beloved 4th-grade teacher, an assistant principal, and a union president before retiring in 2008. His funny, easy-going personality, quick wit, and wonderful sense of humor endeared him to both his students and colleagues alike. But it was his steadfast loyalty and dependability that made David a cherished friend, maintaining friendships that lasted over 50 years. He was also a proud member of the Pi Sigma Epsilon "Fenwicks" fraternity at Fitchburg State University, the North Leominster Rod and Gun Club, and the Massachusetts Teacher's Association.

Outside of the classroom, David was a devoted family man. He was married to his loving wife, Marybarbara, for 49 years and together they raised three children. David's generosity of spirit extended to his four grandsons with whom he shared his love for hunting, target shooting, fly fishing, and gardening. Always ready with a smile, David's happiest moments were spent outdoors, teaching his grandchildren to fish, assisting with Boy Scout projects, and conducting endless backyard tractor rides.

David is survived by his wife, Marybarbara (Gilrein); his children, Zachary (Laura), Meghan (Ramon), and Katherine; his grandchildren, Luke, Liam, Malcolm, and Leander; and his brothers, Michael, Jeffrey, and Kevin Hughes. David was very close to his brothers sharing adventures throughout their lives. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Lorraine Hughes, and his sister, Margery Hughes.

Calling hours will be held at the Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, Massachusetts, on Sunday, February 11, 2024, at 11:00 am. The funeral mass will take place at St Joseph's Catholic Church, 49 Woodland Street, Fitchburg, Massachusetts, on Monday, February 12, 2024, at 10:00 am.

In honoring David's memory, we invite you to share your stories, laughter, and photos on his memorial page or make a donation to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts. David touched many lives, and we encourage you to share the joy he brought to yours. His spirit continues to inspire and guide us, and his memory lives on in the countless lives he touched.

Arrangements are under the care of Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Rd. Fitchburg, MA 01420.

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral Directors.