In Memory of Thomas Hughes, CMB
(Photo credit: Tom Hughes’ obituary)
Thomas Hughes, CMB, former president of the Mortgage Bankers Association of Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Sept. 4.
As reported in his obituary, Tom Hughes was born in 1950 in Searcy, Ark. and moved to Kentucky as a child. “He built a distinguished career in banking, where he became a trailblazer in the mortgage industry,” the obituary reads. “For more than 40 years, he was known for his integrity, vision, and generosity as he helped countless customers achieve the dream of owning a home and guided colleagues with wisdom and encouragement.”
Buddy Kittle, senior vice president and division manager with Stockton Mortgage, Frankfort, Ky., called Hughes a visionary leader. “He was someone who consistently challenged the status quo and never accepted ‘it can’t be done’ as an answer. His passion for mortgage banking was unmatched, but even greater was his love and devotion to his family. Tom spoke often and with great pride about each of them.”
Kittle noted Hughes had a remarkable gift: “Tom never met a stranger. Within moments, he could turn a simple conversation into a lasting connection, often parting as friends. His warmth, integrity, and genuine care for others left a mark on everyone who knew him.”
“With Tom’s passing, we have lost more than a colleague, we’ve lost a dear friend, a mentor, and a truly exceptional family man,” Kittle concluded. “He will be deeply missed, but his legacy and spirit will continue to inspire all of us.”
William Kooper, vice president of state government affairs and industry relations with the Mortgage Bankers Association, worked closely with Hughes. “Tom was such a lovely man and I remember fondly working with him,” Kooper said. “His kindness was matched by his work ethic and ferocious pride in this industry we all love.”
Kooper called Hughes “indispensable” in helping MBA stand up much of the structure of its current state and local program. “This reengaged MBA in this vital partnership work around the country after the financial crisis. Tom was enormously generous in the sage advice he gave me.”
“They don’t make them like that very often. He will be missed,” Kooper concluded.
Hughes requested that donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Brown Cancer Center in his memory in lieu of flowers.
