Philip Whitfield Hughes

1947 - 2022

HUGHES, Mr. Philip Whitfield, 75, died on June 16, 2022. He was preceded in death by his mother, Virginia Hughes; his father, Robert Douglas; his adoptive father, Virgil Hughes; and his former wife, Sandra Hughes. He is survived by his wife, Marie Conway Hughes; his daughters, Mary Catherine and Heather Hughes; his granddaughter, Amaya Hughes; his sister, Penny Anderson (Paul); and his brother, Virgil "Greg" Hughes (Kathleen).

Phil graduated from St. Christopher's School and Hampden-Sydney College. After college, he had a very successful career in the world of banking and finance. Along the way, he established his own financial lending company, Flagship Financial Corporation, and served on the Board of the National Commercial Finance Association. He was a serious and contemplative man when it came to business. As a result of his savvy entrepreneurship and skilled decision-making, he was able to retire early and do what he loved best â€" go fishing!

Phil was always extremely optimistic, jovial and humorous. The pursuit of happiness was a guiding principle in his life. He was well-read and had a keen intellect and memory, with an exceptional propensity for detail. He could quote from all types of poetry and classical literature. He found solace and delight in music of all genres with a particular fondness for bluegrass, folk, songs from the 50's and 60's and operettas. He loved to sing and play his guitar and always made it a priority to attend live performances.

He was a true outdoorsman who wasn't afraid of anything out there in nature. Along with his life-long love of hunting and fishing, he respected and promoted the preservation of the ecology. However, one thing's for certain - no fish was safe in the water if Phil was around! In fact, rather than take it completely easy in retirement, Phil's passion for life on the water led him to a second career as a licensed Charter Boat Captain and fishing guide.

Phil adored his role as father and grandfather. He had friends from all walks of life who knew they could rely on his kindness, thoughtfulness and generosity. If you needed a friend, Phil was there for you, and everyone knew that about him. It's hard to put into words the essence of this great guy. He was one-of-a-kind...a gentle giant whose heart was as big as all outdoors.

A celebration of Phil's life will be held on July 14, 2022, from 2 to 4 p.m. at The Tuckahoe Woman's Club, 4215 Dover Rd., Richmond, Va. 23221. Donations in Phil's honor may be made to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the American Cancer Society.