originally posted on 7/24/2020
Photo from Byron Hughes Collection. View full-sized image.
On July 9, Byron Lamar Hughes lost his lifelong battle with diabetes. He was born in Birmingham, Alabama, on February 12, 1966.
Many ACE members know or at least recognize Byron from the many ACE events he attended or from his time working with the Koch family at Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure. Byron was the ride manager at Alabama Adventure and personal assistant to Pat Koch, lovingly called the General. Several of the newer ride additions were proof of his hard work.
Photo from Byron Hughes Collection. View full-sized image.
Because of his declining health, he left Alabama Adventure and was working from home for Don’s Carpets at the time of his death.
Byron loved roller coasters and old classic carnival rides. His love of Ferris wheels led him to purchase a 1947 Eli Bridge Ferris wheel for his backyard. Byron loved to give his friends and neighbors rides on his prized possession. Byron was also an avid Drum and Bugle Corp fan. He loved to combine a roller coaster trip with a Drum Corp show.
He lived life to the fullest in his 54 years. He was married to the love of his life and fellow ACE member, Donald Ricky Studdard.
Byron was always happy and the life of every party. The next time you take a ride on Rampage, remember Byron and his love and dedication to the amusement park industry.
— Steven Perry
@#$%&!
#ACENews