• Howard & Jones
James Bruce Hughes
Jesup—James Bruce Hughes, 78, died peacefully at his home on Aug. 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on April 20, 1948, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, to the late Ruby and James Hughes. He made Wayne County his home for more than 30 years. A graduate of the University of Georgia, he dedicated many years of his life to education as both a teacher and coach. His students will always remember him as the teacher who made learning come alive—especially when he would dramatically fly off his desk to capture their attention.
His impact expanded far beyond the classroom. Throughout his career, he coached football, track, baseball and basketball, using athletics as another opportunity to teach and mentor young people. To him, coaching was about more than just wins and losses; it was about teaching discipline, hard work, teamwork and character. Just as he had a way of making lessons memorable in the classroom, he had a way of leaving a lasting impression on the athletes he coached. Many of his former students and athletes carried the lessons he taught them long after they left his classroom or stepped off the field and court.
He found great joy in the outdoors, whether he was fishing or working in his yard. Above all, however, his greatest happiness came from spending time with his family, whom he loved deeply.
He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Linda Hughes; a cherished granddaughter and caregiver, Samantha Hughes; children, Brad Hughes, Jeff Hughes and Kelley (Brad) Westberry; grandchildren, Austin Hughes, Mykalia Hughes, Kaden Hughes, J.J. Hughes, Jake Hughes, Braxton Westberry, Annie Westberry, Aubrie Kate Westberry, Hudson Westberry and Colton Westberry; his close cousin, who was like a brother, Steve (Vilma) Gegg; another cousin, Wanda (Chip) Steel; and special family friends, Dana Pope, Mallory Malone, Noah Pope and Geromy Dillinger.
A memorial visitation for family and and friends will be held at Howard & Jones Funeral Home on Aug. 22 from 10 a.m. until noon.
Family and friends may sign the guestbook online at www.jesupfuneralhome.com.
Howard & Jones Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
• Rinehart & Sons
Elbert Hayes
Screven—Elbert Hayes, 85, of Screven died on Aug. 10, 2026.
The North Carolina native had lived in Wayne County the past 25 years and was a Christian. He retired as a truck driver with Roadway Trucking Company. He lived a simple life enjoying his fishing pond and watching his beloved ducks.
His wife, Brenda Hayes, preceded him in death, along with several siblings.
Survivors include a daughter, Sherry (Ray) Goodloe of Virginia; a son, Johnnie (Arlene) Hayes of Virginia; grandchildren, Raymond Goodloe, Erica (fiancé, Ryan Hall) Brannan, Charlie (Wren) Hayes and Elizabeth (Ben) Bigelow; a very special friend, Genell Roberson of Screven; sisters, Margaret and Marie; and a brothers, Roy and James.
Graveside funeral services will be held Friday, Aug. 14, at 10 a.m. in Screven City Cemetery with the Rev. Gerald Greenlee officiating.
Rinehart and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.