Jimmie Ray Hughes was born in Empire, Oklahoma October 7, 1935, to Reginald and Etta (Potts) Hughes. He attended schools in Empire, Fox, and Elmore City before enrolling in Murry State College and the University of Oklahoma. While at OU, Jimmie married his high school sweetheart Elaine Childress from Elmore City. In 1956 their only child, Robin was born. After graduating from the OU School of Engineering in 1959, Jimmie began working as a petroleum engineer for Union Oil Company of California where he stayed until he retired in 1993.
Jimmie’s first job assignment took the little family to Abbeville, Louisiana where Elaine learned to cook creole, Robin began to mix up English and French, and Jimmie worked in the field. It was a bit of a culture shock for the rural Oklahomans, but they always retained a soft spot for South Louisiana. After Abbeville life proceeded on course from one oilfield town in Union’s central division to another: Houston, Midland, Woodard, OK, Midland, Woodward, Lovington, Midland, Snyder, Oklahoma City (Norman), and finally, Midland. Many life-long friends were made along the way. Jimmie was regional drilling manager when he retired from Unocal at the age of 58 because he was “not about to move to Houston”.
After retiring, Jimmie and Elaine built a house at Horseshoe Bay, a place they had both always loved, and were incredibly happy there.
As the seventh of ten children, Jimmie grew up in a family that was poor in money, but rich in love. Family reunions were an annual event that continues. Jimmie had a wry sense of humor and was a bit of a prankster. He loved to play golf and was a sometimes hunter/fisher, but his passion was Oklahoma football.
Saturdays revolved around what time the Sooners played and who their opponent was. Texas and Nebraska games were something that nobody missed for any reason.
Jimmie’s soulmate and the love of his life, Elaine, passed away in February of 2020. He is survived by his daughter, Robin Hughes of Midland, TX; sister Donna Romaine of Guthrie, OK; and, sister Bobbie Presgrove of Comanche, OK, along with many nieces and nephews.
Robin would like to thank the staff at Manor Park, particularly the wonderful people at Scharbauer Cottage and Vogel Center for their loving care and kindness; and, Butch and Sherry Ladd for their devoted friendship.
There will be a celebration party for both Jimmie and Elaine in Oklahoma in October. The exact date will be determined by the Oklahoma football schedule.
Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.
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