Jimmie Ray Hughes

Date of Death: July 6, 2021

Facebook

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.

See Condolences

Robin, my heart breaks for you. You had the most wonderful loving mom and dad. I will always cherish my time with you and them in your home. I knew they loved me. Robin, I want be able to make the ceremony in Oct. But just to let you no, Billy will be there. I’m sending his phone number. Maybe you could touch base with him in a text message or call. I’ll let him no. Robin he’s not on FB. He to had wonderful memories of how sweet they always were to him. God Bless you. Belinda

Jimmy hired me also in 1985. He always treated me decent although I was a stubborn employee. I was there for his retirement and after. I'll never forget his tone change when a report or process was violated: "now Russell" this isn't the way we do things and so on, but he never held a grudge. I learned alot from him and the Union guys I worked with. I met Elaine only once. He lived a full life it sounds like, we should all be so lucky. I'm certainly sorry for the loss of your parents, I'm down to one myself. Russell Ginanni

We are saddened to hear of the loss of your dad. Chuck always spoke fondly of Jimmy and thought highly of him. Jimmy was an outstanding petroleum engineer and was one of Chucks best friends at Union. Our thoughts are with you.

Robin, So sorry to hear about your dad (and your mom also, since I wasn’t aware of her passing). Jimmy was my boss from ‘83 until he retired. He was quite the character, and I believe he felt the same about me, but you had to love the guy. I can’t say he was the perfect boss, but he was damned close … and predictable … which is always a plus. I can honestly say I miss a good ol’ Jimmy Hughes @$$ chewing, and I got several (best to be silent and allow it to play out rather than argue and hear it multiple times). My wife and I stopped in on he and Elaine at Horseshoe Bay (2007 or 2008), unannounced, and it was a great memory, him giving us a tour of the place he described to me before he retired. Some of my best memories are of Midland and your dad played a big part in many of them. Sorry for your loss, but you are not alone. Take care and God bless, Jeff and Marge Tokarsky

So sorry for your loss, Robin! Lorrie

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

We were very good friends with Jimmy and Elaine in Midland, TX. Jimmy loved to tell jokes and talk about financial investments.. Frank and Jimmie loved to talk about the oil field. After retiring to Horseshoe Bay our friendship continued. We miss them very much.

I never met either of Robin's parents, but have always heard nothing but good, loving ❤💙 things about them. I am sure they will be sorely missed, leaving a big hole in Robin's life

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.