rev. joe hughes
1905-1988
Life Story
Rev. Joe Hughes was born on March 2, 1905, in Newton County, Mississippi, to John Hughes (1874–1966) and Arbella Arrington Hughes (1880–1959). Raised in a rural farming household in the Altare community, Joe learned the values of faith, discipline, and perseverance at an early age. Like many children of his generation, he contributed to the family’s livelihood by working on the farm while attending school, completing the third grade of elementary education.
At the age of 18, Joe married Emma Williamson (1908–1996), marking the beginning of a partnership that would endure for more than six decades. Their union was blessed with eight children, who carried forward the Hughes family legacy:
- Walter Hughes (1926–2006)
- James A. Hughes (1928–?)
- Hubert Hughes (1930–2006)
- Gertis A. Hughes (1941–)
- Dorothy J. Hughes (1943–?)
- John A. Hughes (1946–?)
- Mary F. Hughes (1947–?)
- Betty J. Hughes (1949–?)
Throughout his life, Rev. Hughes was both a farmer and a minister, providing for his family while serving his community through faith and labor. His deep spiritual conviction led him to accept the call to ministry in 1935, a decision that shaped the remainder of his life. He became a dedicated member and leader of Saint Cloud Missionary Baptist Church, where he served faithfully for many years.
In addition to his ministry, Rev. Hughes was a respected member of the Masonic Family, reflecting his lifelong commitment to service, moral leadership, and community uplift.
After a lifetime of service to both his family and his congregation, Rev. Joe Hughes passed away on June 8, 1988, at the age of 83.
Resting Place
Saint Cloud Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard
Photos/Albums


Sources
- 1910 Federal Census
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- 1950 Federal Census
- The Newton Record, Rev. Joe Hughes Obituary, Wed, Jun 15, 1988 ·Page 11
- U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007
- U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014
- U.S., World War II Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947
- Virginia, U.S., Marriage Records, 1936-2014
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