Stephen James Hughes

Stephen James Hughes, 79, of Largo, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2026. He was born on April 1, 1947, in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Marie LaTour Hughes and George Hughes. Steve grew up in Brooklyn before moving with his family to Staten Island as a child. 

He was a proud graduate of Port Richmond High School and went on to serve as a New York City Police Department officer for 13 years. Following his retirement from the NYPD, Steve owned and operated Memories, a beloved bar and restaurant in Staten Island, for 20 years. He made many longtime friends at his establishment. 

Steve had many passions throughout his life. He was an avid New York Mets fan and loved watching Notre Dame football. He had a deep love of books and could often be found reading. He was also an avid fish breeder, at times caring for six to ten aquariums at once. Music brought him great joy, especially the songs of the Beach Boys. Steve's love of the beach eventually brought him to Florida, where he enjoyed the warmth, sunshine, and slower pace of life. He loved to travel, but some of his favorite trips were those that brought him back to Staten Island to spend time with family. He especially cherished traveling to watch his granddaughter play softball in Florida. Above all else, Steve was a devoted and incredibly proud grandfather. His grandchildren were truly the light of his life, and he took immense pride in each of them and their accomplishments. His love for his family was one of the greatest joys of his life, and the memories he created with them will be treasured forever. 

Steve is survived by his sons, Christopher Hughes and his wife, Patricia, and Stephen Hughes; his beloved grandchildren, Alyssa, Christopher, and Kayla; his brother, George Hughes, and sister-in-law, Debbie; along with extended family and friends who will miss him dearly. 

A private, closed cremation service will be held for immediate family. A public Mass celebrating Steve's life will be held at a later date. The family will notify friends and loved ones when arrangements have been finalized. 

Steve will be remembered for his love of family, his pride in his grandchildren, his many friends, his many passions and the countless memories he created throughout his life. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.