Les HUGHES

HUGHES, Les

Born 16/06/56 Liverpool, England. Adored husband of Anna Hughes (née Zollo). Loving father of Alan (decd), Ben, Terry and Rebecca. It was with a humble heart, great love for family and friends, and incredible peace that Les took his last breath on Friday 27 September, at around the same time and on the same weekday as our son Alan before him (15 July 2016). In a great act of compassion, Les opened his eyes to meet my gaze and offered his last gift of deep love. It was at this moment that his soul left his body and returned to heaven. Saying I miss you doesn't come close to the sense of loss I feel. You were my all, my love, my life and, though it was hard work, loving you was easy. All the days of my life I’ll sleep with you in my heart, knowing that you and Alan are reunited and at peace. Your friends will fondly remember the jokes that rolled off your tongue and brought humour to every occasion. The tears roll down my face and my heart heaves with every breath, but my soul rests in the peace and love that filled our home over these last three weeks. It was my absolute honour and privilege to gift you your last wish to remain at home for the final days of your life. Life was not perfect, but it was filled with beautiful moments that will become the hallmark of remembering. We have four beautiful children that you loved with all your heart. Each one carrying a little of you in them. Your closeness in your last weeks attested to your devotion. Rebecca was your princess and the boys and I will love and care for her always; she knows you have carried her in your heart to heaven. The challenge that faced you in such a short time was heartbreaking and difficult, but in your last weeks you embraced every step with courage, walked with grace and forgiveness, and took every breath with love. Your courage and strength was shared as part of your journey and revealed an undeterred spiritual faith. You may be gone from the world, but not from our hearts. Rest in peace, Les, with our son Alan, until the veil lifts and we’re all together again. Love Anna, Ben, Terry and Rebecca. Thank you to our families who supported us with love and care and made every day a blessed occasion of gratitude, peace and love. Thank you to our friends and all those who offered love and support, prayed with us and stood in faith for Les’ journey. Thank you to Dr Tang for the gift of Les’ extra time, and to the palliative care team and community nurses, who were with us every day, giving me the support and courage to care for you at home. With gratitude, may the peace and love we shared with Les in his final days bless you now and always.