Gary Pender Hughes, aged 89, passed away in Tulsa, Oklahoma on May 4, 2024. He was a beloved Husband, Father, Grandpa and Friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Gary was born on May 27, 1934, to Paul David Hughes and Sarah Amy (Pender) Hughes in Tulsa, Oklahoma where he spent his childhood. His family moved to Bartlesville where he spent his formative years and then graduated from Bartlesville College High School. He went on to attend the University of Oklahoma, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in 1957. After serving two years of active duty in the Army, Gary then went on to attend Oklahoma State University where he earned his Master of Science in Accounting in 1961. Gary went on to work for Conoco, Inc. in Ponca City, Oklahoma. He ultimately became Assistant Director for the Controller's Office where he spent his entire career of 58 years. Throughout his career, he was known for his hard work, dedication, and passion for helping others.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gary was a devoted family man, who loved his family above all else. He married the love of his life Elaine in 1961. He was a beloved husband to Elaine, and a devoted father to Dan and Rick. He was always there to support, guide and encourage, no matter what challenges they faced. His positive attitude made him a cherished and loyal friend to many.

Gary was dedicated to serving at First Christian Church as a Deacon and Elder, he sang in the choir and played bells, volunteered for Friendship Feast and Tutoring Program. He was also involved in his community, actively volunteering and contributing to Meals on Wheels, in charge of United Way fund drive at Conoco and an Assistant Leader for Boy Scouts of America, as well as assisting in coaching football & baseball for his boy's teams.

Gary was passionate about music. In his free time, he loved playing his saxophone and singing in the choir. He had the awesome experience of singing at Carnegie Hall and toured and performed around Europe with the Jonathan Griffith Singers. His other hobbies included jig saw puzzles, making models, gardening and yard work, and attending his children's and grandchildren's functions. Gary also had a passion for travel. He and Elaine completed 38 cruises, one of which took them around the world for their 50th Wedding Anniversary.

Gary Pender Hughes is survived by his wife, Elaine Hughes, his two sons Richard Dean Hughes and Daniel Alan Hughes and his wife Carol, his grandchildren, Jami Hartness, Antra Hartness, Rebecca Hughes, Cody Hughes, Erik Hughes and Ashlynn New; his great-grandchildren Savonn Parker, Camron Perez, Nakiah Parker, Aileen Perez, Roman Hartness, Masen Hughes, Charlie Hartness, Renee Perez and JJ.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Harvard Avenue Christian Church on May 10, 2024, at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Harvard Avenue Endowment Fund or The Leukemia Foundation.

The honorary pall bearers are the grandchildren.

Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233