Jesse O'Day Hughes Jr.

Obituary for Jesse O'Day Hughes, Jr. March 26, 1941 – January 2, 2025 Jesse O'Day Hughes, Jr., a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on March 26, 1941, in Salisbury, Maryland, he was the son of the late Jesse O'Day Hughes, Sr. and Henrietta Louise Polk-Hughes. Jesse was a proud graduate of Salisbury High School in 1959. After completing his studies, he embarked on a distinguished 45-year career with the United States Postal Service as a mail handler. During this time, Jesse and his first wife, Yvonne, also became successful entrepreneurs, investing in multiple real estate properties, including Jesse’s One Stop Market, a beloved local convenience store. His unwavering dedication to his work, strong work ethic, and commitment to his family and community were hallmarks of his character. Affectionately known as “Sing” for his love of singing and his sharp sense of humor, Jesse had a magnetic personality and a zest for life. He could light up a room with his infectious laughter and a well-placed joke, making him a beloved figure to all who knew him. Whether through his music, comedy, or warm spirit, Jesse’s ability to bring joy to others was truly remarkable. His greatest pride, however, was his family, and he found fulfillment in the love of his daughters, grandchildren, and church family. A man of many talents, Jesse enjoyed boating, crabbing, and fishing, and was an avid bowler, often found at Cherokee Lanes enjoying his favorite pastime. He had a playful competitive streak, especially when it came to games like pool, cornhole, and horseshoes. He was known to defeat his daughters in pool, often holding the cue stick behind his back, creating treasured memories that his family will cherish forever. Jesse was a devoted member of St. James A.M.E. Zion Church in Salisbury, Maryland. His presence was always felt at Sunday services, and if he ever missed a Sunday, his church family knew right away because of his "reserved special seat." Jesse's legacy extends beyond his personal and professional achievements. He was a driven, business-minded man with a generous heart and a deep sense of integrity. Whether in his career or in his relationships, Jesse approached life with a spirit of giving and compassion. His legacy of love, laughter, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Iris Jackson and Delores Glover, brother Henry Polk, granddaughter Menick Johnson-Holland, and second wife Hazel Croswell. Jesse leaves to cherish his memory his first wife and special friend, Yvonne Handy; his four daughters, Machelle Watson (Jesse) of Fruitland, Maryland; Daphne Griffin (Leonard) of Salisbury, Maryland; Dr. Jessilene Purnell-Corbett (David Corbett) of Magnolia, Delaware; and Maria Price (Dion) of Fort Washington, Maryland. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren: Steven, Candace, Christopher, Douglas, Xavier, Cameron, and Jaden; 30 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members. A private family service will be held in his honor. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Heart Association.

Jesse O'Day Hughes Jr.

March 26, 1941 - January 2, 2025