Bobby Gene Hughes, 90, of Batesville, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026. He was born on September 13, 1935, in Williford, Arkansas, to Walter E. Hughes and Bessie M. Yates Hughes.
Bobby was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Rebecca Lucille Denton Hughes; his brothers, Roland Hughes, Oland Hughes, and W.E. Hughes; and his sisters, Wearlene Crook and Gearldene Bishop.
He is survived by two sisters, Ann M. Baker and Oleta Burton, both of Hardy, AR; his loving children, Rebecca A. Poe of Bella Vista, AR, Bobby Don Hughes (Jan) of Lincolnton, GA and Angela D. Zelasko (Jeff) of Batesville, AR. He was a proud grandfather to Amanda H. Dickey (Bryan) of Batesville, AR, Stephen C. Zelasko of Sulphur Rock, AR, Hillary M. Herring (Andy) of Evans, GA, Christopher R. Zelasko of Sulphur Rock, AR, Justin K. Hughes (Morgan) of Grovetown, GA, Ellie R. Jayne (Kevin) of Bentonville, AR, and Emma R. Gammon (Taylor) of Madison, AL. He was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren.
Bobby was a devoted member of the Harrison Street Church of Christ and lived a life grounded in faith, family, and fellowship. He never met a stranger and truly enjoyed talking with and getting to know people.
He had a passion for dirt track racing, cars, and camping, hobbies that brought him great joy throughout his life. He also held a special place in his heart for his beloved cat, Sugars.
The pallbearers will be Phillip Lloyd, Collie Shaw, Steve Wells, Adam Gann, Jack Coggins, and Harold Wren.
Services will be held by Willis Funeral Home at the Harrison Street Church of Christ in Batesville on Saturday, June 27, 2026, with a visitation at 10:00 followed by a celebration of life at 11:00.
Bobby will be laid to rest beside his cherished wife at Oaklawn Cemetery in Batesville following services.
Officiating will be Benson Hardaway and Steve Smith.
He will be remembered for his kindness, warm spirit, and the deep love he had for his family and friends.
The family would like to thank the staff of White River Health System, 2nd and 3rd floors, for their kindness, caring spirits, and support during his time spent there.
Memorials may be made to the Independence County Humane Society or any charity of your choice.
