By THE ALASKA STORY
May 23, 2026 – Alaska gubernatorial candidate Shelley Hughes announced Saturday that her husband, Roger “Rock” Hughes, has passed away.
The Hughes-Gettys campaign confirmed the death to news media. No cause of death has been publicly disclosed.
Shelley Hughes was campaigning in Kodiak at the Kodiak Crab Festival when she learned of her husband’s passing, and she took the next flight home.
Shelley Hughes described her husband as “the love of my life and my greatest supporter,” adding that the family is heartbroken by the loss.
Roger “Rock” Hughes was remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, Vietnam veteran, and supporter throughout Shelley Hughes’ years in public service. The couple had been married for decades.
Hughes is currently running alongside running mate Blake Gettys in Alaska’s 2026 gubernatorial race. It is expected that more details about a service for Rock Hughes will be announced soon.
4 thoughts on “Alaska gubernatorial candidate Shelley Hughes announces death of husband Roger “Rock” Hughes”
Condolences for your loss. May the Lord grant you peace, comfort, and clarity of thought during this time of grief. Our prayers are with you.
May he Rest In Peace.
A great couple and family. Roger was ‘graduated’ to heaven way too soon and I am heartbroken for Shelley. Lifting her and her lovely family up in prayer for comfort, peace, grace and navigating the days ahead.
I’m very sorry to read this. My prayers will be for the Hughes family.