Craig Hughes, 55, of Liberty, Missouri, passed away, with his family by his side, on May 21, 2026. Born on December 28, 1970, in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Craig lived a life marked by dedication to his craft, love for his family, friends, and a passion for the simple joys of life.
A proud graduate of Winnetonka High School in 1989. Craig furthered his education at TAD Technical Institute, specializing in Computer-Aided Drafting. His professional journey showcased his remarkable talent in the automotive field. Over the years, Craig excelled as a service writer, auto body technician, auto painter, auto body shop manager, and in auto manufacturing. For a short time, Craig had his own business, “BTN Restoration" restoring and painting antiques. He was close with his coworkers, and remained lifelong friends with them. His skill and commitment to his work left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of working alongside him.
The absolute pinnacle of Craig’s life centered on his greatest joys: the day he married his beloved wife, the day he welcomed his cherished son into the world, the four dogs he rescued, and of course, the unforgettable day his Ford Maverick was delivered.
Craig loved all types of music and dancing. He admired the American Flag and almost always wore the symbol on a shirt, hat, shoes and even pants. He also found joy in life’s quieter moments. He loved going to the lake and fishing. He enjoyed mushroom hunting, cooking, and the fire pit. He loved the Chiefs and collecting sports memorabilia of all kinds. He could often be found hanging out at the UAW hall at “the tree”.
Craig lived life. He often forged a path that was uniquely his own. He was a man who didn't always follow the crowd or make the easiest choices, but he remained fiercely true to himself, and although not always outwardly portrayed, to his relationship with Jesus, his Savior.
While Craig loved his family and friends with immense depth, verbalizing and demonstrating those feelings did not always come easily to him. Instead, he expressed his affection and reconciliations through his own distinct "love languages." If you were the recipient of a random song text out of the blue, or if he shared/delivered food with/to you, or if he called after long periods of not hearing from him, you knew without a doubt that you were deeply cared for and on his mind. He leaves behind a legacy of quiet devotion and memories.
Craig is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Rebecca Hughes; his son Bryce Hughes and his partner Hannah Al-Sadawi ; his mother, Dorothy LittleJohn; his brothers Don Bisbee ( sister-in-law -Lori) and Steve Hughes (Rachel - sister-in-law), brother and sister in law - Mike and Jenny Pantleo; and his father-in-law - Jerry Hueser. He also leaves behind three nephews, two nieces, three great-nephews, three great-nieces, aunts, uncles, and numerous cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father - Jerry Hughes; stepfather - Don Bisbee; stepfather - Ken LittleJohn, mother-in-law -Teresa Hueser; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Craig’s memory will live on through the lives he touched with his genuineness and dedication. May those who knew him find comfort in remembering the moments they shared with him. He will be greatly missed.
