Joe Hughes 77 (Smokey Joe)

**Guvs** · 23-01-2011, 00:32

So sad to hear of the passing of Joe, what a wonderful man he was, I only got to know the real Smokey Joe over the last few Drums reunions, I don’t know of anyone that has a negative thing to say about the man, even when he had to turf us drunken bunch of Drummers from the company club in Tidworth, he did it in the Smokey Joe's way and we all understood him.
I got to know him as MR Smokey Joe, and not as the CSM Smokey Joe, what a nice gentleman he was, and I seen the caring family man side of him, his family must be very proud of him.
Rest in peace Joe, and my condolences to all the family.
Guvs

**Dave322** · 23-01-2011, 03:09

Originally Posted by Bob Bacon

There are few people in the world who have the unique ability to light up a room or set the room on fire– Joe was one of those extraordinary individuals.

Joe taught me many valuable life lessons - never look back, move forward, fight the odds and maintain a positive attitude. Every single one of us in the regimental family that served with Joe is a better person for having him in our lives. We have lost a real character.

I am honoured to have known and served with him; his humour, insight and humility will be sorely missed

You've got it in one Bob but quoting from you have said I will add this

**Thom15** · 23-01-2011, 04:36

RIP Smokey

**Ken Barrow** · 23-01-2011, 07:35

So Sad to here of Joe`s passing. I had the pleasure to serve with Joe in the Drums in Honiton when he was a Cpl & Me being a young 17 year old he was always there if i needed advice with a problem. And when he was CSM of HQ Coy in Lemgo he always had that soft spot for the Drums. (RIP Joe).

billyboy52 · 23-01-2011, 10:33

very sad to hear this news. our thoughts go out to a wonderfull royal welch man rip smokey joe. humph /and on behalf of shrews and dist comrades branch

**jack murphy** · 23-01-2011, 11:22

RIP joe it was an honour to have served with you aand god bless

**Rob12** · 23-01-2011, 11:42

On behalf of all members of the Denbigh and District RWFCA condolences to Joe's family and all who new this iconic Gentleman

**mick carnell 53** · 23-01-2011, 12:22

Yet another sad loss, joe was a friend and in the past a mentor to so many. He will be missed. RIP Joe

**Charlie Cox** · 23-01-2011, 12:50

What a sad loss to the 23rd. Having first met Joe as boys back in Derring Lines in 1958, Joe a junior Drummer and I a junior Bandman . After boys we both went our seperate ways to jion our regiments, but it was in 1973 on a transfer to 1RWF from 1RRW we made contact again. Joe was one of the first people to welcome me to the Regiment and the Sergeants Mess. Over the years Joe became CSM HQ coy. and I BSM. Throughout this time we had numerous some friendly and heated dicussions on the merits of the Band and Drums. These discussions continued right up till two years ago at the League of Friends . Joe I shall miss your friendly banter and perhaps we will sometime continue our disscussions.
Charlie Cox

**jungle1810** · 23-01-2011, 13:03

Hello all,
I also knew "Smokey"Joe from the time he served on the executive committee. he was a true gentleman and sage to boot.I heartily agree with both Al & Bobs sentiments on the life and times of Joe.In conclusion I would like to express my condolence to all his immediate family and friends. rest in peace Joe.
RBD aka jungle1810