Bernard Joseph “BJ” Hughes Jr, was a lifelong resident of North Rockland, passing peacefully at his home in Stony Point at 90 years of age. He was born January 4, 1935 to Bernard Joseph Hughes Sr and Charlotte Uhl both of Haverstraw. A graduate of St Peter’s Boy School and Haverstraw High School as class president, he went on to serve honorably in the United States Air Force from 1952-1956 during the Korean War. After returning from overseas he married the love of his life Noreen Kapusinski of Stony Point at St Mary’s Church of Haverstraw on April 25, 1959 celebrating among 225 family and friends. BJ worked for New York State Trap Rock Corp before landing his dream job as director of transportation at the North Rockland Central School District. Upon retiring he continued his work in transportation with Haverstraw Transit Inc.. He spent the twilight years of his life alongside his loving family and friends, especially his brothers of the Haverstraw Elks Lodge 877 where he was a 61 year life member. “Bernie” is survived by his wife of 66 years, Noreen, his sisters Maryanne and Janey, his son Bernard III, grandchildren Bernie IV, Chris and Nick, his great grandchildren Brixton, Bernard “Joey” V, Bryson, Brantley and “NJ” Jr.. In lieu of flowers the family would like donations made in his memory to United Hospice for the tremendous care they provided in his final days.