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Otis Lee Hughes, 91, of Steubenville, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2026. Otis was born on July 16, 1934 in Steubenville, Ohio, son to the late Mary E. Owens Scott and Otis Hughes. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, Jesse B. (Bobo) Owens, stepfather Carl T. Scott, sister Carlene Jill Scott and brothers Ralph Scott, Jeffrey Scott, and Carl E. Hughes. Also preceded in death are his beloved sons, Derek Lee Hughes and Jason Dean Hughes.
Otis graduated in 1952 from Jefferson Union High School. He enlisted in the Navy and was a proud veteran who loved his country. Otis was an electrician and carpenter by trade before beginning his career at Titanium Metals in Toronto, Ohio. He enjoyed decades of working in the hot mill department of TIMET. After retirement, he continued using his carpentry skills to complete many home improvement projects. However, he often spoke of his very first job with a great sense of pride and accomplishment. As a teenager, Otis delivered newspapers throughout the countryside while riding in the saddle of his pony!
He and his wife loved Steubenville Big Red football and held season tickets for over 40 years. He enjoyed cheering on The Buckeyes and watching Golf, Basketball and Gunsmoke. His favorite sports icons were Larry Bird and Arnold Palmer. He enjoyed playing cornhole and golf, but most enjoyed playing ping-pong and was considered a champ by anyone who dared play against him. Otis will be remembered for his love of classic cars, his collection of books and classic movies, as well as his love of music. In his eyes, there was no greater entertainer than Elvis. He loved nature and never missed feeding all the birds and wildlife that gathered around his home.
Otis was a kind and gentle man with empathy and compassion for others. He often spoke of cherished childhood memories of time spent with his Aunts, Uncles and cousins. In particular, he carried an immense love for his dearly departed cousin, Barry Dixon. Sharing countless memories of their time spent together, always brought him to tears.
He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Frances M. Portocarrero Hughes and his children Valerie (Joseph) Reda, Cheryl (James) DeFrank, Darin (Ruth) Hughes and Kathleen (Steven) Duco. In addition to his children, he is survived by his sister-in-law, Shirley Hughes and brother-in-law, Thomas (Chip) Coulter. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who are near and dear to his heart.
Otis was a proud and loving grandfather to seven grandchildren; Justin Hughes, Jacob DeFrank, Gina DeFrank, Christopher Hughes, Joseph Hughes, Jason Hughes Jr. and Tristan Hughes. He also leaves behind two beautiful great granddaughters, Mila Donna Jean Hughes and Hallie Jo Hughes.
At the request of Otis, there will be no funeral service. Private cremation and burial to be held at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Steubenville and a celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. Anyone wishing to make a donation in memory of Otis, may do so at: give.salvationarmyusa. org
You may give online condolences at www.mostifuneralhome.com