Clayton Bernard Hughes

Clayton Bernard Hughes peacefully passed from this life on November 19, 2024, surrounded by his beautiful wife and many family and friends. 

Clay was born to Sharen and Phil B. Hughes on July 31, 1961, in Panguitch, Utah. Shortly afterward, his family made St. George his permanent home. Clay was born with dark curly hair and was so cute he was often mistaken for a baby girl, which his father was quick to correct. Clay was a man’s-man in every way. Clay wore many hats throughout his life and approached every opportunity with his whole self. He was a boxer, a horseman, a cross-country star, a motorcycle jumper, a missionary, a farmer, a gardener, a marksman, a patriot, a defender, a camper, a hunter, and a lover of humanity. He was always on the go. With Clay, there was never a dull moment and you never got anything but his absolute best!

Clay inherited a love for boxing from his dad, which he carried throughout his life. As a young man, he won the prestigious “Golden Gloves” award and took on the role of “Coach” to pass his skills and love of the sport on to many throughout his life. He gave countless hours supporting his fighters by standing in their corner, cheering them on to better themselves both in and out of the ring. He treated them like family, calling them “his kids.” He would do anything to help them win their fights along life’s journey. He listened, straightened them out with loving direction, and was present whenever he could be. His fighters often said, “Coach changed my life! He loved me and was my biggest cheerleader.”

His guidance extended beyond the ring. Clay helped his father break wild mustangs and had a passion for riding horses. He broke a horse that he kept for himself and was often seen riding it all over town (even on the college campus). He carried his love of animals with him throughout his life. Clay loved his pets and treated them like family. It was seldom that you would see Clay out alone. A dog usually accompanied him on his adventures. His latest dogs, Griz and Harley, will miss his loving hugs and care. 

In every aspect of his life, Clay did not take the easy trail. He faced adversity with a smile and a laugh, approaching every challenge as the ride of a lifetime or an epic adventure from which he would emerge better and stronger.

Clay did not take shortcuts and was a characteristically hard worker. He could be counted on to help with any job. He showed up for people when they needed it most and had a knack for knowing what was necessary to make things happen. He embodied charity and loved to make people smile. 

His strong work ethic and love for people shined through in his love for the Scouting program. He worked hard earning his Eagle Scout award, which was a point of great pride for him. He truly earned every merit badge that he received and put those skills to good use throughout the rest of his life. 

Clay had a deep love for the mountains, and there was no place where he felt more at home than in the great outdoors. Whether camping, hunting or simply enjoying the serenity of nature, he cherished every moment spent in the wilderness. His passion for the outdoors was something he loved to share with others, especially his wife Amy and grandchildren, creating lasting memories in the process. No matter the season, Clay was always eager to be out in the woods, and when he wasn’t out camping, his conversations often turned to his next adventure in Dog Valley or the hunting tags he was most excited about. The peace and tranquility he found in the mountains were a source of great joy for him, and it was a place where he felt truly alive

Family and his Father in Heaven were the only things that could keep Clay from the mountains. He answered the call to serve a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in England. He approached this as he did every other opportunity in his life: with humility and hard work. His experiences in England set Clay on the road to a lifetime of service, respect, and love for the Lord. He stood up for his beliefs and fought for what was right even when it was difficult. 

Clay proudly served on the Washington County Fair Board for 39 years, dedicating countless hours to its success. 12 years of that with Amy by his side. He volunteered his time with unwavering enthusiasm, always greeting those he worked with with a warm smile. Clay poured his heart and soul into making the fair a special event, striving to create an experience that brought people together for enjoyment and community. His commitment and selflessness left a lasting impact on the fair and all who were involved.

Clay faced many difficulties with his health, but he faced them with a positive attitude. He embraced the broken vessel he was given and made the most of it. He understood that his poor health, like all trials in this life, was temporary and trusted that his Savior would turn these weaknesses and heartbreaks into strengths. Nothing broke his spirit or got him down. 

Clay loved Amy with all his heart and was a devoted and faithful husband. His greatest treasure in life was his family. On May 21, 2013, he married the love of his life, Amy, whom he met at an LDS Singles Dance. Together, they were sealed for time and eternity in the St. George Temple. Clay’s love for Amy, their five sons, and their many grandchildren knew no bounds. His deep affection for them was a central part of who he was, and his legacy of love, devotion, and family will continue to live on through them.

 To know Clay was to love Clay, His contagious smile and laugh could light up any room.Clay was a true example to all who knew him. He embodied love and laughter, always seeing and uplifting those whom others might overlook. Clay had a remarkable ability to listen deeply, understand the hearts of others and respond with empathy and kindness. He gave generously of his time, heart, and talents, always putting others first. His life was a shining example of charity and selflessness, and he had a rare gift for bringing people together, creating joy, and spreading light in a world that often felt dark and difficult. His presence will be profoundly missed by all who were touched by his love and spirit. 

Clay is survived by his loving mother, Sharen Hughes; his devoted wife, Amy Hughes; his five sons: Brandon, Tanner (Maddy), Daniel (Briahna), Russell (Alyssa), and John; his seven grandchildren; and his four brothers: Jeff (Tammy), Kary (Carol), Cory (Rachel), and Ricky, along with many others whom Clay considered family.

He is preceded in death by his father, Phil B. Hughes, and his first wife, Cindy Peterson.

A viewing will be held on Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 5:00–7:30 P.M. Services will be held on Monday, December 2, 2024, at 11:00 A.M., with a viewing prior from 9:30–10:30 A.M. at the LDS Chapel, 452 N 2600 W, Hurricane, Utah. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported them during this difficult time.