Dr. Dirk Hughes' Obituary
Dr. Dirk Hughes, 66, passed away on February 19, 2025, in Longview, Texas, following a brief illness. Born on February 14, 1959, in Beckley, West Virginia, Dirk was the beloved son of R.G. and Emma Jean Hughes.
A proud graduate of Fairfield High School Class of 1977, Dirk's lifelong journey of learning and leadership was marked by exceptional academic accomplishments. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Texas A&M University in 1981, an Associate of Applied Science in Industrial Management from Navarro College in 1988, a Master of Business Administration and Management from Texas A&M Texarkana in 2002, a Doctor of Business Administration in Organizational Leadership from the University of Phoenix in 2012, and, most recently, a Bachelor of Arts in History from Southern New Hampshire University in 2023. Additionally, he was a distinguished Texas Board Registered Professional Engineer.
Dirk dedicated 35 illustrious years to Luminant, beginning as an Engineer at Big Brown Power Plant in Fairfield in 1981 and culminating his career as the Executive Director of Training at Luminant Academy upon his retirement in 2016. Even after retiring, Dirk's passion for mentorship remained undiminished as he continued guiding students as a mentor at Western Governors University and as the Executive Director of Workforce Training at Texas State Technical College in Marshall.
Committed to serving his community, Dirk was an influential member of the Fairfield City Council and a vital presence in the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce. He was also immensely proud of achieving the rank of Eagle Scout and deeply devoted to his Baptist faith.
Dirk’s charismatic, warm-hearted nature was unforgettable, always punctuated by his signature, spirited greeting of "HOWDY!" He embraced everyone as a friend, leaving an indelible impression as a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and mentor.
He is lovingly remembered and survived by his cherished wife of 47 years, Stephanie; their son, Troy, and daughter-in-law, Cindy; and beloved grandchildren Hunter, Avyn, and Harper. Dirk also leaves behind a host of relatives and an extended family of friends and colleagues who deeply admired him.
Respecting Dirk’s wishes, a private cremation will take place with no public memorial service. In tribute to his unwavering commitment to education, the Hughes family will establish a scholarship in his name. Further details and opportunities to contribute in Dirk’s memory will be announced at a later date.
Dirk’s legacy of generosity, kindness, and relentless pursuit of knowledge will forever resonate in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
What’s your fondest memory of Dirk?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dirk?
Share a story where Dirk's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dirk you’ll never forget.
How did Dirk make you smile?