James R. “Boots” Hughes, age 87, of Rockwood, passed away October 29, 2019. James served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After leaving the military, he graduated from Tennessee Technological University in Cookeville and became an elementary school teacher at the Eureka Elementary School in Rockwood. He was an accomplished and talented musician, playing many instruments, and gave lessons to anyone who wanted to learn. He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years: Mary C. Foland Hughes of Rockwood; daughter: Gloria (Sam) McElhaney of Decatur, Tennessee; granddaughter: Christy (Scott) Cagle of Decatur, Tennessee; great-grandchildren: Courtney (Tyler) Brown of Decatur, Tennessee and Christian Cagle of Decatur, Tennessee; 2 great-great-grandchildren: Abigail and Finnley Brown of Decatur, Tennessee; numerous nieces and nephews he loved dearly; and many other relatives and friends. Family and friends will meet Saturday, November 2, 2019 at 1 p.m. in the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Rockwood for graveside services and interment. Full military honors will be given by the Roane County Military Memorial Honor Guard and the Tennessee Army National Guard.