Hubert Leo “Hugh” Sweeney
1957 – 2018

Hugh Sweeney, 60, of Pensacola, FL died suddenly on July 2, 2018. Hugh was born July 24, 1957 in North Kingstown, RI to Tom and Barbara Sweeney and grew up in Norfolk, VA.

In 1977, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as a proud SeaBee until his retirement in 1994. His many tours of duty included being stationed in Gulfport, MS in the early 1980’s where he met the love of his life, Charlotte. It was also in Mississippi that their daughter Kathleen (Katie) was born. Two years later, while stationed at NAS Sigonella, Sicily, their son Joshua was born.

Retiring in Pensacola, Hugh continued his SeaBee skills as a “plumber extraordinaire” for several local companies, most notably, Mayne Mechanical Contractors (MMI). “If water flowed through it”, Hugh was the plumber you needed.

The family has been members of both Farm Hill UMC and St. Luke UMC where Hugh was much loved and rather famous for his biscuits and gravy. Hugh’s Walk to Emmaus (Table of Meat!) deepened his faith and gave him a new community of friends.

Later in his life that was way too short, Hugh found fellowship and fun as a member of the Krewe of Lafitte where he served as a Float Captain and later as a Knight on “The Best Court Ever.” Aargh!

Hugh lived his life loud and large, and he loved. If you were his friend, you know that you could call day or night and he would be there.

Who Hugh loved most was his family. He unfailingly called his mother, Barbara, at least once every week. He told his wife, Charlotte, that he loved her and that she was beautiful several times each day. He was very much a part of his children’s lives as they grew up in Scouting, 4-H, and many church and school activities. He continued to be a source of advice, encouragement, and occasional embarrassment until the very end.

Hugh was thrilled when daughter-in-law Anna joined the family. He was completely over the moon when Katie’s daughter Adrianna was born. She was, is, and forever will be Big Papa’s girl.

Oh, Hugh, how you loved and how we loved you. Have a great time in Heaven – we’ll see you soon.

He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas; brothers, Tommy, Jimmy and Sean; sisters, Kathy and Michelle; and niece, Karen.

Hugh is survived by his wife, Charlotte; daughter, Katie; granddaughter, Adrianna; son, Joshua (Anna); mother, Barbara Sweeney; sister, Teresa; brother, Donald Sweeney; nieces, Amanda, Chelsea and Chrissie; special friends, Ed and Pat Gardner, Bill Johnston and Aaron Beasley; and a host of relatives and friends.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until a celebration of Hugh’s life begins at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 7, 2018 at St. Luke UMC with Rev. Larry Anderson officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to his granddaughter, Adrianna Moore’s College Savings Account at Member’s First Credit Union or St. Luke UMC.