Our Lady of Peace custodian retires

Giving, considerate, and dedicated are just three words that the children at Our Lady of Peace School in Lynbrook wrote in a letter to the Village Board to describe the former director of school maintenance, Edward Hughes, who relinquished the title on June 25 after 20 years of service. Now, the halls will be a bit emptier as the school begins on September 8 in his absence.

“You show us how to be true Christians,” the children wrote. “You are always doing things for us. You know and experience the true meaning of life.”

Hughes, a 78-year-old father and grandfather, was recognized for his long-time commitment to OLP at a recent board meeting. With his commitment to the school, Hughes created many wonderful memories, which include remembering the early days when he was a new and fresh face there. “There were kids that went to school there in the old days that are now married and still living in the neighborhood,” Hughes said.

Hughes said that he cherishes all of the children and is honored by their kind words. He is extremely moved that they have dedicated a book to him, and even feels like a grandfather to them. “This experience with the children meant a lot,” he said. “I love to be with the children and loved their graduations. I was with the kindergarten classes when they first started and I saw [all the children] going through [the school.]”

Hughes’ daughter, Eileen Obanhein playfully remembers how her father was called all hours of the night to the school’s rescue, while Hughes will miss kidding around with the kids, looking out for their safety, and seeing all of the parents. He said the school was very welcoming and embraced him.

According to Obanhein, Hughes was just as welcoming to the school. “He would help the kids out of their cars in rain, sleet, and snow,” she said. “He was dedicated to [this school.]”

But there is one special memory that Hughes and his daughter will not forget, which is Hughes playfully tugging on the childrens’ hair. In addition, scenes of greeting the children with a “Good Morning,” sneaking them upstairs when they were late, and special experiences at lunchtime will always remain in his heart.

And with his retirement, Hughes is looking forward to enjoying every moment. “I plan to visit Pennsylvania a lot and sleep late,” Hughes said. But he said that he will also enjoy spending precious time with his thirty-four grandchildren, too.