Edwin Joseph Hughes, Jr.

Edwin Joseph Hughes Jr., 97, of Laurel, MD, died peacefully on January 7, 2026.

Edwin was born in 1928 in New Orleans, Louisiana to Edwin and Catherine Hughes. He completed his bachelor’s degree at Loyola University New Orleans. During the Korean War, he joined the Navy and served with distinction as a Lieutenant for three years.

Edwin went on to earn post-graduate degrees at Tulane University and Harvard University. He subsequently earned his doctoral degree at Iowa State University, where he met his future wife, Darlys. They married, started a family, and moved to Oregon where Edwin was a professor of statistics at Oregon State University. The young family eventually settled in Laurel, MD.

After completing his military service and academic pursuits, Edwin continued to serve his country quietly and admirably for his lengthy civilian career. Upon his retirement, Edwin and Darlys took their dream cruise to Alaska to celebrate.

Edwin is survived by his beloved wife Darlys, five children: Michael, Laurie, Stephen (Laura), David (Cecilia), and Julie, three grandchildren: Emily, Paul (Brooke), and Emma, and one great granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his sister Marilyn Hebert and brother-in-law Jack Hebert of New Orleans.

Edwin and Darlys were faithful parishioners at St. Mary of the Mills Catholic Church in Laurel, MD and Edwin will be laid to rest in accordance with Catholic traditions.

Edwin will be greatly missed by those who knew him. He will be remembered as an honorable man, devoted husband and attentive father who lived a principled life, provided for his family, and cherished his wife. He made education a priority for his children and by his example, taught them the importance of always doing what is right.