Tracy Hughes, a beloved husband, father, brother, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on February 10, 2026, at the age of 63, after bravely facing a rare congenital aggressive lung problem diagnosed a year prior. Born on January 16, 1963, in Rolla, Missouri, Tracy’s life was a testament to love, family, and dedication to the land.

Raised in Cuba, Missouri, Tracy graduated from Cuba High School in 1981. His early years were framed by the hard work and lessons learned on the farm, helping his father with agriculture, cutting timber, and operating a sawmill. This connection to the earth remained a pivotal part of his identity throughout his life. Tracy later founded Double H Excavating, a venture he deeply cherished, showcasing his pride in building something of his own.

Tracy’s warm personality attracted many friends and family who cherished his ability to make others feel at ease. He had a special knack for storytelling, often captivating those around him with tales from his life. His kindness was evident in every interaction and he was always ready to lend an ear or share a laugh.

A dedicated family man, Tracy’s greatest joy came from creating memories with his loved ones, particularly his five grandchildren: Gracie, Ella, Everett, Hudson, and Ryan. He often remarked that if given the choice, he would have chosen to have them first, reflecting his profound love and pride for them. The yearly hay season became a cherished family tradition—a time filled with teamwork amidst the challenges of breakdowns and humid weather. These experiences fashioned bonds that would last a lifetime, filled with laughter, hard work, and the simple joys of being together.

Tracy is survived by his devoted wife, Kelly Hughes, and their son Robert Hughes of Cuba. He also leaves behind his daughter, Marilyn Arnold, and her husband Billy of Abilene, Kansas, along with his sisters, Diana Pantaleo and husband Steve, and Pansy Bingham and husband Terry. Together, they will carry forward his legacy of love, strength, and unwavering support.

Tracy was predeceased by his loving parents, Everett L. “Boss” and Grace Bernice Fanger Hughes, who instilled in him the values of hard work and community, values he lived by every day.

A graveside service to honor Tracy’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m., February 16, 2026, at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Cuba, Missouri, with Dave Robinson officiating. Those serving as pallbearers will be Robert Hughes, Billy Arnold, Gage Lincoln, Tim Lincoln, Buddy Hughes and Jeff Jones. Honorary Pallbearers will be Darryl Earhart, Gerald Earhart, Paul Schwent, Mike Robinson and Kenny Asher.  His absence leaves a vast void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his spirit will live on in the stories shared, the land he nurtured, and the laughter of his grandchildren, reminding us of the love that binds family together. Tracy Hughes will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.

Memories may be shared at www.jonesfunerals.com

All arrangements are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Missouri