Sue Hughes

Sue (Fichtner) Hughes – February 26, 2025

Born November 15, 1932, the third child and only daughter of John L. and Marie Fichtner. Sue is survived by her loving husband of 66 years, William E. Hughes, daughter, Tracy Hughes Kroft (Joe Stephany), grandson Drew M. Kroft (Dina Alawneh), granddaughter, Caroline M. Kroft (Kevin Li) and great-granddaughter, Quinn Li. She is also survived by her younger brother, William Fichtner, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and many friends. She is predeceased by her mother and father, eldest brother, John L. Fichtner, Jr., and brother Richard Fichtner.

Sue was adored by family, friends, and colleagues from her over 35 years at East Irondequoit Schools. Sue was the consummate secretary, and the school principals and teachers she supported over her career all said, “Sue ran that school!” Their affection for her was very clear over the last few months of her life with many visitors bearing cookies, flowers, fudge and gossip.

Sue was a master calligrapher, a skill she perfected for almost 50 years. She was asked by many to use her artful writing to adorn certificates, artwork, invitations, envelopes and more. She was also a master pie baker, something her family really appreciated! And Sue’s fashion sense was second to none; rocking her high heels into her early 80s. 

She loved her beach vacations with her wonderful husband and family. They spent as much time as they could over the last 30 years at a variety of beaches … Virginia Beach, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, and Duck in North Carolina where she went “shelling” with her grandchildren when they were young and stood guard, hands on hips, worrying over how they were “too far out” in the water as they got older. She loved visits with her nephew and niece, Mike and Laurie Fichtner in Mystic, Connecticut, where she so enjoyed all the oysters, shrimp, lobster and clams.

The family wants to express their deep gratitude for the loving, dignified and compassionate care provided by the staff and volunteers of Isaiah House. The staff and volunteers lavished Sue with attention, cookies, strawberries in whipped cream, and, best of all, her favorite Bloody Marys. Cheers to all of you.

Please join the family for a casual gathering for light refreshments and to share stories and remembrances. Wednesday, March 12, an open house from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Flight Wine Bar 262 Exchange Blvd. Rochester 14608.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her name to Isaiah House, 1005 East Avenue Rochester, NY 14607.