Joseph "Joe" Howard Hughes was carried home by angels Sunday afternoon from his home where he was surrounded by his family who adored him. He was born November 17, 1956 to Howard and Jean Hughes of Conway. Joe was a quiet, strong man of few words, but many kind deeds. He was employed for 18 years with Combraco Industries. Joe worked several years with Grand Strand Water & Sewer. He was also a brick mason. Joe had a very strong faith in God which sustained him through his most difficult life struggle. His greatest love was his family. Surviving in addition to his parents of Conway are his loving wife of 26 years, Rita J. Hughes, who stood by him faithfully. He is also survived by one loving daughter, Kimberly H. Smith (Bill); six grandsons whom he adored, Elijah, Ezra, Simon, Sebastian, Zachary, and Blake Smith, all of Conway; two brothers, Dexter Hughes (Trish) and Alvin Hughes (Reina), all of Conway; and many loving in-laws, nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday, September 15, 2010 at Mt. Ariel Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. Timmy Locklear officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, September 14, 2010 at the funeral home. Memorials may be sent to Mercy Care, 8216 Devon Court, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 or to A.L.S., 1064 Gardner Road, Suite 101, Charleston, SC 29407. Please sign a guest book at www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com. Goldfinch Funeral Home, Conway Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. Published in The Sun News on September 14, 2010