Mr. Joseph Terry Hughes, 45, of East Bernstadt, passed away Wednesday evening, September 17, 2025 at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington. He was born December 22, 1979 in Barbourville, the son of Carolyn Sue Gambrel Vaughn.
Joe was a carpenter and of the Baptist faith. He was known for his love of the outdoors and could often be found hunting, fishing or on the lake. He also dearly loved his dogs. Joe was an avid University of Kentucky fan, who rarely missed a game, and often shared his contagious enthusiasm. He also enjoyed four-wheeling, working with his hands and was always the one that family and friends could count on to fix just about anything.
His contagious laugh and easygoing nature made him a joy to be around and he never met a stranger. Joe’s presence lit up every room and his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Evelyn and Leamon Gambrel; a grandson, Aiden Fritz and Bill Abner, who raised him.
Survivors include his life partner, Tiffney Creech; mother, Carolyn Sue Vaughn; children, Landon Hughes, Makenna Hughes Fritz, Caleb Hughes Fritz and Cameron Hughes Fritz; sister, Patricia Smith and husband, Donald, of Heidrick; brother, Steve Gambrel and wife, Annette, of Cannon; grandchildren, Adaly, Ezekiel and Maya Fritz; among other loved ones and dear friends.
His funeral service will be conducted in the chapel of the Knox Funeral Home Sunday, September 21 at 2 P.M. with Rev. Mike Collins and Rev. James McDonald officiating. He will be laid to rest in the Patterson Cemetery.
Casket bearers will be Johnny Gambrel, Keith Broughton, Cameron Hughes Fritz, Landon Hughes, James Gambrel, Austin Smith, Travis Smith, Chris Vaughn, Josh Collins, Michael Napier and Adam Vaughn.
The family would like to express their appreciation to Rodney Smith, Dr. Raju Vora and Melanie Chesnut for the excellent care he received.
Friends may visit at the funeral home Sunday after 12 Noon until the funeral hour.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.
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For questions about our obituaries or condolence service, please contact us. You may reach us via e-mail at knoxfuneralhome@barbourville.com. Reach us via phone by calling 606-546-2222.
