Ex-West Virginia Supreme Court Justice Thomas McHugh passes away at the age of 88

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Supreme Court has sadly announced the passing of former justice Thomas E. McHugh, who died on Tuesday at the age of 88.

McHugh had a remarkable judicial career and famously remarked that he had “retired twice” from his role on the court, indicating his unique contributions over separate periods.

His journey began when he was first elected as a Democrat to the state Supreme Court of Appeals in 1980 for a term of 12 years. He secured re-election in 1992 but stepped down in 1997 to go back to the private practice of law.

In 2008, during a critical time, he was appointed by then-Chief Justice Elliott E. “Spike” Maynard to temporarily fill Justice Joseph P. Albright’s position while Albright battled esophageal cancer. Following Albright’s death in 2009, Governor Joe Manchin named McHugh to take over the vacated seat permanently. He concluded his service on the court in 2013 after winning an election in 2010 to complete Albright’s term.

Justice Beth Walker from the State Court of Appeals recognized McHugh’s legacy, referring to him as “a model of distinguished service and civility.” His contributions to the judiciary will not be forgotten.

Born in Charleston in 1936, McHugh graduated from West Virginia University in 1958. Before ascending to the highest court in the state, he also held the position of circuit court judge, showcasing a long-standing commitment to the law and the community he served.