Ernest “Cuz” Hughes Jr., 77, of Morganton, passed away on Friday, October 2, 2026 at UNC Blue Ridge following a period of declining health.

Ernest was born August 30, 1949 in Mitchell County to the late Ernest Hughes Sr. and Mildred Gouge Hughes. He served with the NC Department of Corrections for 30 years, retiring as a Captain from Foothills Correctional Institution. Known for his strong work ethic, Ernest was always willing to help others. He was a devoted partner, father, brother, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Kathy Mayle.

Those left to cherish his memory is life partner of 30 years, Carolyn P. Clarke; daughter, Rachel Hughes and husband Seth Moore; Carolyn’s son, Gregg Gettys (Jennifer Sorrells); and step-grandchildren, Isabelle Moore and Easton Moore. Also surviving are his sister, Betty Hughes Briggs; brother, Noah Homer Hughes; nieces, Staci Ammons (Garry Johnson), Julie Higgins (Clint), Becky McCurry, Shea Laws (Brandon), Tiffany Woody (Jake); nephew, Anthony Hughes; many special friends, neighbors, and his feline companion, Tinker.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 6:30 PM in the Chapel of Heritage Funeral Service with Mike Thomas officiating.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM at Heritage Funeral Service.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Fairview Cemetery with Trent Honeycutt officiating. (80 Fairview Cemetery Rd, Green Mountain, NC 28740)

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory in Valdese is assisting the family.