Thomas W. Hughes, 76, of Lakewood and formerly of Point Pleasant Beach, passed away on October 19, 2014 surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Irvington to John & Loretta (Zwigard), Thomas went on to a dedicated and proud career at Shore Regional High School, serving as a phys. ed. teacher, department head and coach (basketball, x-country, track), eventually retiring as Athletic Director. His love for education, sports, and his students came second only to his love of his family. He will be greatly missed.
Thomas was predeceased by his parents, his brother Richard and his sister Ann Dreher. He is survived by his devoted children – John of Brick, Mary-Lynne of Point Pleasant Beach, Mary-Beth of Brick, and Thomas & wife Ilene of Brick; as well as his cherished grandchildren – Sean, Emma, JT, McKayla, Mae, Charlie, & Hannah; his brother Robert & wife Nancy of Highland Lakes, and his brother-in-law Bert Dreher. Thomas also leaves Lynne & Andy Doral of Brick, as well as many other loving relatives and friends.
Visitation will be at O’Brien Funeral Home, 505 Burnt Tavern Road, Brick, on Thursday from 4-8pm. Funeral Mass will be at St. Peter’s Church, 406 Forman Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, on Friday at 10am. Burial will follow at St. Mary of the Lake Cemetery, Lakewood. In lieu of flowers, donations requested to Covenant House, 330 Washington Street, Newark, NJ 07102.