Thomas Franklin Hughes

Thomas Franklin Hughes, 75, of Knob Lick, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, September 4th, 2025. He was born on February 15, 1950, in Searcy, Arkansas, the son of the late Ardis Franklin Hughes and Lowren Butler Hughes. His father’s oil drilling business brought the family to Kentucky during Tom’s childhood, and from then on Kentucky was the place he grew up and made his home, though he always felt a deep connection to his native Arkansas. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three siblings: Mackie Hughes, Jo Ann Crittenden, and Patti Holder.

In 1968, Tom married the love of his life, Mary Lenita (Jones) Hughes. Together they shared over five decades, raising a family that became his greatest pride. He is survived by his wife Mary Lenita; their daughter, Letitia Hughes (Mark); their son, Thomas “Little Tom” Franklin Hughes II (DeAnn); and four beloved granddaughters, Mariah Hughes-Ortega (Justin), Malena Hughes, Hallie Hughes, and Ava Hughes.

Tom began his career teaching social studies at North Metcalfe Elementary and served as a Second Lieutenant and executive officer in the Kentucky National Guard. He built a distinguished career in banking, where he became a trailblazer in the mortgage industry. For more than 40 years, he was known for his integrity, vision, and generosity as he helped countless customers achieve the dream of owning a home and guided colleagues with wisdom and encouragement.

Beyond his work, Tom cherished time with his family most of all. He also loved working on the farm and spending time hunting and knife making, passions that brought him joy and connected him to the land he loved. Tom was a faithful member of the Edmonton Methodist Church. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, and a man whose kindness, wisdom, and strength will leave a lasting legacy.

Visitation will be held Saturday, September 6th beginning at 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM and Sunday from 8:00 AM till the funeral service at 2:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Metcalfe County Memorial Gardens.Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Butler Funeral Home in Edmonton, Kentucky.

In lieu of flowers, Tom requested that donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Brown Cancer Center in his memory.