Kenneth Edward Hughes, beloved domestic partner, father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026, leaving a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Born on July 29, 1948, in Atlanta, Georgia, at Crawford Long Memorial Hospital, Ken was an old soul who thrived in the embrace of his family, friends, and the natural world around him.

Ken attended Tucker High School and was an Accounting Analyst for AT&T for a number of years, and later worked at Georgia Marble Company (Imerys) as a QA Lab Technician for over thirty years, until his retirement in 2010. Each role he took on reflected his meticulous nature and dedication, yet his true passion blossomed outside of work.

An avid gardener and landscaper, Ken found solace in nurturing plants and creating beauty in his surroundings. He was also passionate about woodworking, classic cars, football and baseball, and all types of music, especially classic rock. He enjoyed good company and conversation, and was often known as "ZZ" around north Georgia. Whether he was watching Westerns or a concert video, Ken embraced life's simple pleasures with an easygoing spirit. He had a deep appreciation for waterfalls and held a profound spiritual connection to the earth.

Above all, Ken cherished time spent with those he loved most — his family and friends. He is survived by his devoted domestic partner Cathy Martin, who brought warmth and companionship into his life. His daughters, Jessica Hughes, Judith Hendricks, Alicia Newberry, and Jenna Hughes, will carry forward his love and values, supported by his son-in-law Joseph Newberry. He is also survived by his siblings, sisters Carol Sims and Donna Harris, and brothers David Hughes and Clay Hughes, along with his stepchildren Terry Turner, Kayla Freeman, and Britney Turner. Ken also leaves behind seventeen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, each of whom adored him deeply. They will forever remember his comforting hugs, laughter, stories, and the way he made every gathering special.

Ken was preceded in death by his father, Truman "Cowboy" Hughes, his mother, Della Mae Coats, his brother Maurice Hughes, and step-daughter Melissa Terry. Additionally, he felt the loss of his close friends, Junior and Kathy Bell, who shared in his joys and challenges throughout the years.

Though he has departed, Ken's spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. A celebration of life party will be held at Ken's residence in spring 2026 (date to be announced), where all are invited to gather, reminisce, and honor the remarkable life he led.

In the gentle breezes, the sound of creeks and waterfalls, and the echo of laughter, Kenneth Edward Hughes will forever remain a part of our lives, a reminder to cherish the natural beauty around us and the bonds we create.

Care of Kenneth has been entrusted to In Their Honor Funeral and Cremation Providers.