CASTLETON - Hayden Allen Hughes, 80, of Castleton, died at his residence in his sleep early Monday morning, September 22, 2008, with his wife of 54 years at his side. He was receiving treatment for a fast-moving cancer. He was born on May 29, 1928 at home in South Poultney to Llewelyn I. and Myrtle (McDougall) Hughes. As a 1946 graduate of Poultney High School, he immediately enlisted for two years in the United States Navy, serving aboard the battleship U.S.S. Wisconsin. At A.W. Thacker Academy for Jewelers in Pittsburgh PA, he completed courses in jewelry and engraving (1949) and continued his studies there, graduating in June 1951 as a Master Watchmaker. He was employed as a watchmaker, jeweler, and hand engraver serving various jewelry stores in Vermont and New York from 1951 until his passing. Survivors include his wife, Jeanette (Burke) Hughes; three children: Susan B. (Hughes) Curtis and her husband Roy of Addison, Thomas Allen Hughes and his wife Cheryl of Middlebury, and Deborah L. (Hughes) Flynn and her husband Fran of Burlington. He is also survived by four grandchildren who knew him as "Taid" (Welsh for grandfather): Evan R. Flynn, Emily R. Curtis, Grace M. Hughes, and Stephen A. Hughes. He was a long-time member of the American Watchmakers Institute and of Morning Star Masonic Lodge of Poultney. A former treasurer and trustee of the Village of Poultney, Hughes later served three terms on the Castleton Planning Commission. He relished country life at home with his family as well as outings on his pontoon boat, "Bon Homme Richard," on Lake Bomoseen. He thoroughly enjoyed his repartee with his friends and business associates. He attended St. David's Anglican Church. Arrangements will be private and at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Hayden's name may be made to the Rutland County Humane Society (765 Stevens Road, Pittsford VT 05763), of which he was a charter member.