Harold Lester Hughes
Harold Lester Hughes, 70, of Salem, Va., went to be with his Lord on Thursday, June 13, 2019, surrounded by his loving family at Salem Health & Rehabilitation Center.
At the age of seventeen months, he was diagnosed with Polio, crippling his legs, which prevented him from having the ability to walk. Harold always had the drive and sincere passion for serving his Lord and Savior. Over the years he has worked for many churches as a minister of music, as well as teaching and preaching the gospel. The First Baptist Church of Newcastle was the last associate pastoral role that he held. He loved his congregation and served them wholeheartedly with a sincere love for each member. Throughout his career, he also taught in private Christian schools, as well as the Roanoke County School system as a substitute teacher. The family thanks God for the rich life Harold had here on this earth, and for a deeply loving family and supportive community who encouraged him along his journey.
Harold is preceded in death by his father, Alva Hughes; and a brother, Jerry Hughes.
Left behind to cherish to his memory is his loving wife of forty years, Becky Hughes; mother, Leohma Hughes; son, Eric Hughes (Monica); daughter, Mary Hughes; brother, Jeffery Hughes; and a sister, Sarah Holland (Robert). Also left behind to cherish his memory are numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins of numbers far too great to name them all.
Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, June 17, 2019, at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home and Crematory in Salem. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 18, 2019, in the chapel. A graveside service will also be held on Tuesday, June 18, 2019, at 2 p.m. at Sarver Cemetery, 5471 Hall Rd. Catawba, Va.