Memorial Service for Mayor Today

Memorial services will be at 4 p.m. today at Claremont Presbyterian Church for Mayor Alex Hughes.

Hughes, who had served on the City Council since 1986 and as mayor since last April, died early Monday, apparently of a heart attack. He was at his home when he became ill, and was taken to Pomona Valley Community Hospital. He was 52.

Mayor Pro Tem Nick Presecan will assume mayoral responsibilities. The City Council must decide whether to appoint someone to serve out Hughes’ term or leave the seat empty until April, city officials said.

“He was an exceptional human being and . . . an outstanding public servant,” City Manager Glenn D. Southard said.

“Alex had extreme passion for all people. He would listen. He had integrity. That’s what people expect in an elected official. He was really top flight,” Southard said.

Hughes was associate superintendent of Claremont schools, having served the district since 1966, when he was appointed assistant principal of Claremont High School. He was principal in 1968-75, then was appointed assistant superintendent of the school system. He was promoted to associate superintendent this year.

Dr. Tom Peeler, Claremont superintendent, said Hughes “was a highly unique person who was involved with the city and a real leader in the school district.”

Southard said Hughes contributed to the schools by maintaining outstanding early relationships between the city and the district. As a result, the city and the district have sponsored several programs together, he said.

“He gave and gave until there wasn’t anything left to give,” said Councilwoman Diann Ring, who was elected with Hughes. “He used to play Santa Claus at the schools and at Christmas parties. I saw him last Saturday in his suit.”

During the 23 years he lived in Claremont, Hughes was a member of the Rotary Club, ruling elder of Claremont Presbyterian Church and was on the board of directors of the Services Center for Independent Living.

Hughes was born in Cleveland. He attended the University of Southern California and received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education.

Hughes is survived by Anita Gaffron Hughes, his wife of 24 years, and three children: John, 22, Kelly, 19, and James, 12.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Services Center for Independent Living, 480 S. Indian Hill Blvd.; Claremont Presbyterian Church, 1111 N. Mountain Ave., or the American Red Cross, Claremont Chapter, 2065 N. Indian Hill Blvd.