Thomas M. Hughes, of Selbyville, Delaware, formerly of Crofton, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the age of 85.

Born on January 12, 1940, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Elizabeth Louise Duffy and John Patrick Hughes.

Thomas attended West Catholic Preparatory High School, graduating in 1958. A gifted athlete, he participated in track, basketball, and football, serving proudly as co-captain of the football team. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Villanova University in 1962.

Following graduation, Thomas served in the United States Army Reserves from 1962 to 1968, receiving an honorable discharge. He then embarked on a distinguished career with the Federal Government, beginning at the General Services Administration he held several positions including Chief of Facilities Evaluation Branch and Chief of Building Services. In 1981, he was promoted to Deputy Director of Material Management and attended the Federal Executive Institute in Charlottesville, Virginia. In 1985, he advanced to the Government Printing Office as a Senior Level Executive Management. After three decades of dedicated service, he received numerous letters of commendation and special achievement awards during his career, he retired January 2, 1999.

Thomas and his beloved wife of 59 years, Gayle M. Hughes, who preceded him in death on May 30, 2025, enjoyed retirement at the Delaware beaches, residing in Bethany Beach and later Selbyville. He was an active member of the Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645 for 26 years, where he held numerous leadership roles, most recently serving as Co-Chairman of the House Committee.

Thomas found joy in playing golf and spending time with his fellow lodge members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Jack Hughes, Jim Hughes, and Frank Hughes, as well as a sister, Elizabeth Hughes, whom he never had the chance to meet.

Thomas is survived by his three children: Michelle Hughes Hotem and her husband, Jeff, of Seven Valleys, PA; Thomas M. Hughes Jr. and his wife, Lisa, of Marriottsville, MD; Sean T. Hughes, of Washington, DC.

He is also survived by four cherished grandchildren: ENS. Jack Hotem (USN), Riley Hotem, Griffin Hughes, and Nolan Hughes and many nieces and nephews.

A viewing will be held from 5-7 PM on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at the Ocean View Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 38040 Muddy Neck Rd., Ocean View, DE 19970.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Friday, January 9, 2026 at St. Ann Catholic Church, 691 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach, DE 19930.  Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Dagsboro, DE.