Benjamin James Hughes, VP Creative at Squarespace, Passes Away on June 3 at Family Vacation Home in New Paltz, New York – Obituary, Death
Benjamin James Hughes, a widely respected and beloved figure in the creative industry, passed away on June 3, 2024, at his family vacation home in New Paltz, New York. The news of his death was shared through a heartfelt social media post that read, “It is with incredible sadness that I am posting this. Our friend and former Red Carpeter Ben Hughes passed away on June 2.”
Ben Hughes, known to many as a beacon of creativity and innovation, held the prestigious position of Vice President of Creative at Squarespace in New York City. Born on January 29, 1980, in Buffalo, New York, he was a graduate of Canisius High School and had a profound impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Ben’s early years were marked by a keen sense of curiosity and a passion for learning. He was a polymath, with interests spanning a wide range of subjects. This broad curiosity not only defined his personal life but also deeply influenced his professional endeavors. Ben was known for his remarkable ability to weave together different strands of knowledge and creativity, making him a unique and invaluable asset in any team he worked with.
At Canisius High School, Ben’s talents were evident in both his academic and extracurricular activities. He excelled in his studies and was an active participant in various school programs, always eager to contribute and learn. His peers and teachers alike admired his intelligence, wit, and the positive energy he brought to every situation.
Ben’s journey into the creative industry began shortly after he graduated from high school. He pursued higher education with the same fervor and dedication that characterized his early years. His academic pursuits were driven by a desire to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of what was possible. This relentless pursuit of knowledge and innovation eventually led him to New York City, where he would make a significant mark on the creative landscape.
As Vice President of Creative at Squarespace, Ben Hughes played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s brand identity. His leadership and vision were instrumental in the creation of numerous award-winning campaigns, including several high-profile Super Bowl commercials. Ben’s work was not just about creating visually stunning advertisements; it was about telling compelling stories that resonated with audiences on a deep level.
Ben’s colleagues at Squarespace remember him as a mentor and a friend. His positive outlook and clever sense of humor made him a joy to work with, and his ability to inspire and motivate others was unmatched. He was a remarkable leader who always made those around him feel valued and included. His kindness, inventiveness, and unwavering support left an indelible mark on everyone who had the pleasure of working with him.
Outside of his professional achievements, Ben was a devoted family man. He was a loving husband to Mollie Glick and a dedicated father to their two children, Griffin and Gabriel. Ben’s family was the center of his world, and he cherished every moment spent with them. His children adored him, and his wife treasured the deep bond they shared. Ben’s stepfather, Brian Brady, and his mother, Beverly Hughes, were also incredibly proud of the man he had become. He was a beloved brother to Alex, Nicholas, Jacob, and Adam, and a stepbrother to Leslie Brady, Evan Brady, and Anna Brady.
Ben’s impact extended beyond his immediate family and professional circle. He was known for his community involvement and his commitment to making the world a better place. His friends and acquaintances often spoke of his generosity and his willingness to lend a helping hand to those in need. Ben’s legacy is one of kindness, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
In honor of Ben’s memory, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Saturn Club on September 6, 2024, at 4 PM. The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, gifts be made to the Benjamin J. Hughes ’97 Scholarship Fund at Canisius High School. This fund will help support future generations of students, ensuring that Ben’s passion for learning and his commitment to excellence live on.
The news of Ben’s passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him. He was more than just a colleague or a friend; he was a guiding light, a source of inspiration, and a testament to the power of creativity and kindness. His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will be cherished forever.
As we remember Benjamin James Hughes, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will endure for generations to come. His story is one of brilliance, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and the creative industry. Ben’s journey may have come to an end, but the impact he made and the lives he touched will continue to be felt for years to come.
In reflecting on Ben’s life, it is impossible not to be moved by the depth of his character and the breadth of his contributions. He was a man of many talents, whose passion for creativity was matched only by his love for his family. Ben’s ability to connect with people, to make them feel seen and valued, was one of his greatest gifts. His humor, warmth, and generosity of spirit were evident in everything he did.
Ben’s professional achievements at Squarespace were nothing short of extraordinary. Under his leadership, the creative team produced some of the most memorable and impactful advertisements of the past decade. His vision and creativity helped shape the brand’s identity and set a new standard for excellence in the industry. Ben’s work was not just about selling a product; it was about creating a connection, telling a story, and evoking emotion.
His colleagues often spoke of his ability to see the big picture while also paying attention to the smallest details. Ben was a strategic thinker with a keen eye for design and a deep understanding of what it takes to create a successful campaign. He was a mentor to many, always willing to share his knowledge and expertise with those around him. His team admired him not only for his talent but also for his kindness and approachability.
Outside of work, Ben’s life was centered around his family. He was a devoted husband to Mollie Glick, who was his partner and best friend. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams. Ben’s children, Griffin and Gabriel, were the light of his life. He took great pride in their accomplishments and was deeply involved in their lives. Ben’s love for his family was evident in everything he did, and his dedication to them was unwavering.
Ben’s parents, Beverly Hughes and Brian Brady, were immensely proud of the man he had become. They watched with pride as he achieved professional success and built a loving family of his own. Ben’s siblings, Alex, Nicholas, Jacob, and Adam, looked up to him and cherished the bond they shared. His step-siblings, Leslie Brady, Evan Brady, and Anna Brady, also held him in high regard and valued his presence in their lives.
In addition to his family, Ben’s circle of friends and colleagues was wide and varied. He had a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and his friendships were characterized by mutual respect and admiration. Ben’s friends often spoke of his generosity, his sense of humor, and his ability to make them feel valued. He was a confidant, a mentor, and a source of support for many.
Ben’s community involvement was another testament to his character. He was committed to giving back and making a positive impact on the world around him. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or simply being there for those in need, Ben’s actions reflected his deep sense of responsibility and compassion. His legacy of kindness and generosity will continue to inspire others to follow in his footsteps.
As we gather to celebrate Ben’s life, we are reminded of the many ways in which he touched our lives. His presence was a gift, and his impact was profound. Ben’s legacy is one of creativity, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. He will be remembered as a remarkable individual who brought joy, inspiration, and a sense of belonging to all who knew him.
In the face of this loss, we find comfort in the memories we shared and the lessons Ben imparted. His life was a testament to the power of creativity, the importance of family, and the value of kindness. As we honor his memory, we are reminded of the many ways in which he made the world a better place.
Benjamin James Hughes may no longer be with us, but his spirit lives on in the lives he touched and the legacy he left behind. His contributions to the creative industry, his dedication to his family, and his unwavering kindness will continue to inspire and uplift those who knew him. As we celebrate his life, we hold onto the memories and the lessons he imparted, knowing that his impact will be felt for generations to come.
In the days and weeks ahead, we will continue to honor Ben’s memory by living our lives with the same passion, creativity, and kindness that he exemplified. We will remember the joy he brought into our lives, the lessons he taught us, and the love he shared. Benjamin James Hughes was a remarkable individual, and his legacy will endure as a beacon of inspiration and a testament to the power of a life well-lived.
