Geoffrey Atkinson Hughes
Sept. 4, 1942 - Feb. 26, 2023
SKOKIE - Geoffrey "Geoff" Atkinson Hughes, 80, formerly of Bloomington, passed away on February 26, 2023, at Alden Estates of Skokie.
Geoff was born on September 4, 1942, to Wesley and Faith (Potwin) Hughes in Rochester, NY. They preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Diana Hughes.
He married the love of his life, Judith Atkins, on June 11, 1966, in Claremont, IL. She survives.
He is also survived by two daughters: Lisa (Nadav) Hughes-Daniel, Stephanie Hughes; four grandchildren: Talia and Noa Daniel and Tessa and Gabe Schmelling; his sister, Pegatha (Paul) Hughes; and many beloved brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.
Geoff met Judy in French class at Eastern Illinois University, where both earned their bachelor's degrees. He had previously studied at the Sorbonne University in Paris and later earned a master's degree from University of Illinois. Geoff spent 16 years teaching French, most of those at Bloomington High School. He later worked for State Farm as a systems analyst until retiring in 2004, and then as a photographer who captured more than 100 weddings, plays, and treasured photos of loved ones. Geoff was a lifelong woodworker and an avid biker, hiker and pickleball player.
His celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Cremation rites have been entrusted with Carmody Flynn Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Golden K Kiwanis Club of Bloomington (Golden K Fund for Kids), where Geoff devoted many of his later years and served as president until October 2022, or to the Southern Poverty Law Center.
To express condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home.
Rhonda Johnson
April 3, 2024
I was one of the many brides that Geoff blessed with his gift of photography. Sending condolences and prayers and for his family.
Laurie Bergner
March 6, 2023
So very sad to hear of Geoff's passing. He was such a lovely man, a real gentleman, kind and caring. His passing is a loss to the world.
Gail Dobbins
March 5, 2023
We at Heartland Theatre will miss Geoff deeply. He was such a wonderful man and an outstanding talent with his passion in photography and photo retouching. Geoff was our photographer for over 20 years. We reach out to Judy with our sincere condolences. We will never forget Geoff.
Linda Tackett Eft
March 4, 2023
One of my favorite teachers! He was such a kind man!!
Susan Long
March 2, 2023
I had the pleasure of working with Jeff at State Farm for many years. He was a kind and gentle person who calmly took charge of situations with his manner, intelligence and sense of humor. His eye for the good things in life was evident in his photography. His always talked so proudly of his family and Judy was his best friend partner. He was a blessed man with having an awesome family, many friends and he was able to make a difference while pursing his passions. I know he will be missed.
Paula Morris Billings
March 1, 2023
Madame Hughes - my French was not correct! It should have read
Je´tadore!
Paula Morris Billings
March 1, 2023
I am so sad to hear of Monsieur Hughes passing. He was by far the best and my most favorite teacher I have ever had. He taught us so much about not only French but about life. I will always remember him. I had the pleasure of having coffee with him and some classmates when I was back for our 50th reunion. I´m so glad I saw him. We had emailed each other over the past year and a half. Rest in peace Monsieur. J´adore. Paula Morris Billings.
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