Clare Hughes passed away peacefully June 9, 2026, in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Lee Chin Yap was born in Seremban, Malaya, an oldest child. She grew up there and in Kuala Lumpur from the age of 10. She attended the teacher’s college of the University of Malaya where she met William (Bill) Hughes, who was a visiting Professor in the new Department of Economics. They were married in 1965 and moved to Vancouver in December of that year. They moved to Washington DC shortly thereafter, where they had two sons. The family had a brief stint in Jakarta, Indonesia 1971-73 and then settled in Victoria in 1975 where they built a house.
Bill died in 1978, and Clare started to work in various administrative roles in the Victoria School Board, the BC Legislature, and, for most of her career, in the Ministry of Education. She eventually retired in 2002.
Clare has always been passionate about her many activities. She hosted a weekly Monday bridge night at her home for 25 years. As well, she has been a frequent ballroom dancer and ardent tennis and then pickleball player. She was involved in Victoria crafting groups, primarily involving calligraphy and card making.
She was pre-deceased by her brothers Stephen and Paul. Clare leaves her sons Michael and Andrew, grandson Alexander and family in California and Malaysia including nephews and nieces Tien (David), Ming (Caroline), Seong (Kenneth), Gregory, and Geraldine.
A Memorial Service will take place at Highgate Lodge, 1538 Cedar Hill X Road, Victoria, BC on Sunday, June 28th at 2:00 pm.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Emmy WONG
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Eva DeDoming, Calvin and Simon Wong Our deepest condolences. Clara was such a strong, caring woman who dedicated her life to raising her two boys but also gave so much to the community. I remember all the dumpling parties she hosted opening up her house and her heart to bring people together. We will miss her. All our love to Michael, Andrew and Alexander
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Diane & Philip Mew We are very sad to hear the news about Clare. To the Hughes Family, so sorry for your loss.
Clare was one of the friends of the late Susan Mew and Wayne Mew. We joined them at events over the years.
She was such a nice person, and we recall that fondly.We are smiling right now as we think of Clare with her signature eyeglasses!
Diane & Philip Mew
Victoria BC
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Wayne Mew To the Hughes family, please accept my deepest condolences.
Clare was a dear friend and she will live on in my heart.
Wayne Mew
Victoria BC
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Ron Stacy, Marcia Stacy Sorry to hear of Clare’s passing, sending our condolences. We were friends of Betty Rollins and met Clare through her.
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Lara Our sincere condolences, thinking of you at this sad time. – Lara Wilson and Kelly Harms.
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Joni Mitchell My deepest condolences to Clare’s family. I remember with fondness many visits with Clare over the past 30+ years, as well her warmth and generosity.
My deepest condolences to Michael, Andrew and Alexander.
Clare and I were neighbors in Victoria for more than 30 years. I enjoyed Clare’s hospitality in her beautiful house.