James Forrest Hughes

Jim (Jimbo to his childhood friends) was born on December 6, 1950 to Forrest (Frosty) and Mary Hughes in Ukiah, California and passed away on July 31, 2025.

He attended all local grammar schools and graduated from Ukiah High School in 1969. After receiving his A.A. degree in Computer Science from Shasta Junior College in Redding, he studied Psychology and Sociology at California State University, Chico.

Jim married Patricia Brennan in 1971 and was employed locally for several years before being hired by the City of Ukiah. He retired in 2007 as Golf Course Superintendent after working 30 years for the City of Ukiah. In his retirement years, he assisted in producing wine for Simaine Cellars.

Sports was one of his very favorite pastimes throughout his life. As a youngster, he was a member of the Ukiah Dolphins swim club, then in high school he ran cross country, track and excelled in wrestling. He was proud to win awards for North Coast Sectionals in his sophomore year.

After attending his first SF Giants game with his father when he was 7 years old, he became a lifelong fan. He played Little League growing up, then coached his sons in Little League for ten seasons. Also, as an adult, he participated in the Ukiah Men’s slow pitch softball league for many seasons. And, of course, he loved playing golf with his sons and his friends.

For many years, Jim enjoyed having his friends over for BBQ’s and working in his garden, raising lovely flowers and vegetables, which he gladly shared.

Another of his passionate pastimes was listening to live music. A patron of local live musicians, he often attended events to support them. Jim would even travel far to hear great music, especially the Blues. During his retirement years, he went on three Blues Cruises to the Caribbean.

He divorced in 2002 and remained single until his passing, but spent his last twelve years with Valerie Warda as his companion.

He is survived by his sons Kyle Hughes (Tenaya Willette Green), Brett Hughes, and his sister Linda Martin. Also surviving him are his nieces, Crystal Ray, Jill Siliznoff (Ryan), and his nephew Cory Martin (Janice); his great nephews and niece, Shane Siliznoff, Cody Siliznoff, Kadin Siliznoff, Carah Martin, Jaron Martin.