10/03/2026
With regret, I inform you of the passing of Billy Hughes.
(Family written obituary) William “Billy” Patrick Hughes Jr., beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, friend, and mentor, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on September 28, 2026, at Montefiore Medical Center following a short illness. He was 72 years old.
Billy was born on November 11, 1953, in Washington Heights, New York, to William and Ann Hughes. The eldest of four children, Billy was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother, Joseph.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Karen; his daughter, Jessica Woods (Cody); his son, William Hughes (Gabby); his brother, Michael Hughes (Caresse); his sister, Patti Balakitsis; and his beloved nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, extended family, and countless friends who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
During his early adulthood, Billy spent much of his time playing and coaching sports throughout his Washington Heights neighborhood. It was during these years that he earned the affectionate nicknames “Coach” and “Space Cowboy”—names that remained a part of his identity and the memories shared by those who knew him. Many of the friendships Billy formed during those years lasted throughout his lifetime.
Billy lived a life filled with many passions and accomplishments. He was a graduate of Iona College, a skilled plumber, a maintenance manager at Columbia University, and an avid scuba diver. He was also an enthusiastic and devoted Lord of the Rings fan, a passion he proudly shared with those around him.
In 2018, Billy received the gift of a heart transplant. His family will be forever grateful to his donor and the donor’s family for the precious gift of life that gave Billy nearly eight additional years with the people he loved. Those years became a treasured gift filled with memories that his family will carry with them forever.
Above all else, Billy was a man who loved his family and his friends deeply. He had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome, and his home was a place where everyone had a seat at the table. Friends became family, and family always came first. Billy was the person people could turn to when they needed help, support, or simply someone to be there. He gave freely of himself and never wanted to be a burden to anyone.
Billy leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, friendship, and countless memories. His presence touched the lives of so many, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his wife, children, siblings, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, in-laws, friends, and every person whose life he touched along the way.
He will be loved eternally and missed more than words can express.
My deepest condolences to the family. May Billy Rest in Peace.
