Mr. Eugene “Gene” R. Hughes, 61, of North Utica passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare in New Hartford with his loving family by his side. Gene was born in Utica on December 18, 1959, the son of William and Esther (Kellogg) Hughes. He was raised in Utica and was a graduate of John F. Kennedy High School and attended SUNY Brockport and Mohawk Valley Community College. He was employed for 28 years by the Resource Center for Independent Living (RCIL) as their Director of Advocacy, a position he was passionate about. Some of Gene’s accomplishments and involvement included National Speaking on Disability Rights, “Think First Program,” Compassion & Choices, Youth with Disabilities, Legislation on ADA, Access Oneida County, NY Association on Independent Living Board Member, and Occupational Therapy Program at Utica College. Gene was a sports enthusiast especially football. His love of German Shepards was evident to anyone that knew him. His most recent companion “Apollo” held a special place in his heart. Gene is survived by his beloved fiancée Lisa Yule of N. Utica; his son Kyle Ennis of Frankfort; sister Charlene Castelletti of Whitesboro; two brothers and sister-in-laws, Dennis and Michelle Hughes of Clinton; Jerry and Theresa Hughes of Utica; his aunt Mary Alice Hughes of Holland Patent; nieces and nephews Amber (Basar) Sahbudak and family; Brett (Santina) Hughes and family; Evan (Nimrat) Hughes and family; Marc and Jamie Castelletti. He was predeceased by his parents William and Esther; nephew Trevor Hughes; and brother-in-law Rod Castelletti. Visitation for family and friends is Tuesday, September 14, 2021 from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at the Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Rd., N. Utica followed by a celebration of Gene’s life at 7:00 p.m. at the conclusion of visitation. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Compassion & Choices, P.O. Box 485, Etna, NH 97202 or a charity of your choice in Gene’s memory. The family would like to thank the staff of the Allen Calder wing first floor for their kindness and compassion during Gene’s time with them. They also extend their heartfelt gratitude to Howard, Michelle, Samantha, Amanda, Anita, Zack and Laurie for the many years of loving care you provided to Gene. Your kindness and friendship will never be forgotten. Messages of sympathy may be shared at www.heintzfuneralservice.net For those unable to attend Gene’s celebration of life, please visit https://www.facebook.com/heintzfuneralservice to view a live stream of the service, beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday evening.