It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Phillip “Jerry” Hughes, a devoted family man and longtime public servant from Portsmouth, Virginia. The 60-year-old transitioned peacefully on January 7, 2026, in Norcross, Georgia, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, faith, and unwavering love that touched countless lives in both Virginia and Georgia.
Born on March 7, 1965, in Portsmouth to the late James P. Hughes and Pastor Katie Louise Hughes, Jerry grew up in a household grounded in faith and family values. Raised in the historic port city known for its naval heritage and neighborhoods, he developed the strong work ethic and compassionate nature that defined him. As the son of a pastor, early exposure to church life instilled in him a lifelong devotion to spiritual growth and community support.
Jerry built an exemplary career spanning 36 years with the United States Postal Service, beginning in his hometown of Portsmouth and later continuing in the Atlanta region. His role as a postal worker exemplified reliability and public service, delivering not just mail but a sense of connection to residents across changing landscapes. Colleagues and community members remembered him for his professionalism and friendly demeanor, qualities that made his daily rounds meaningful beyond the job itself.
At the heart of Jerry’s world was his family, where he shone as a loving husband to Vinetta Hughes, a devoted father, and a proud grandfather. He cherished his daughter, Angelica “Angel” Belcher, married to Marcus; his son, Phillip “PJ” Hughes; and his step-daughters, Ashley McBride Braswell, married to Timothy, and Jazmine McBride, married to Dustin. The delight of his grandchildren—Ava, Ace, and Ari Belcher—brought immense joy, as he invested time and affection in nurturing these young lives with guidance and warmth.
Jerry’s faith remained a guiding force throughout his years, attending church regularly and finding spiritual homes in several congregations. He was a dedicated member of Gospel Tabernacle Church and New Bethel Baptist Church in Portsmouth, before embracing New Life Baptist Church in Decatur, Georgia, in his later chapter. This commitment to worship underscored a lifestyle rooted in gratitude, fellowship, and service to others.
Though preceded in death by his parents and brothers Johnnie L. Gee and Bishop Monroe Hughes, Jerry is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, sisters Jeanette Ingram and Ida Jean Dillard, brothers David P. Hughes and Issac Eugene Hughes, and a host of extended relatives and friends. His life stands as a tribute to one well lived through steadfast dedication, familial love, and quiet faith.
Services include visitation on Friday, January 23, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Fisher Funeral Home in Portsmouth, followed by an 11:00 a.m. funeral on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at New Bethel Baptist Church, with burial at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens & Mausoleum in Chesapeake.