Husband of Alaska gubernatorial candidate Shelley Hughes passes away

The Hughes-Gettys campaign announced the passing of Roger “Rock” Hughes, beloved husband of gubernatorial candidate Shelley Hughes.

Rock Hughes is being remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose strength, faith, humor, and steadfast support touched countless lives, the campaign team said in a statement released Saturday night. Throughout Hughes’ years of public service, he was a constant source of encouragement and unwavering love, campaign officials said.

“Rock was the love of my life and my greatest supporter,” Shelley Hughes said. “Our family is heartbroken, and we are deeply grateful for the prayers, kindness, and support being extended to us during this difficult time.”

The Hughes family asks for privacy as they mourn their loss, according to the campaign.

Hughes served in the Alaska Legislature for more than a decade, before resigning in November of 2025 to focus on her run for governor, and had been a member of the Senate since 2017, including a two-year turn as Senate majority leader. She worked on a variety of issues during her tenure, putting an emphasis on energy, technology, education, and agriculture. Hughes represented the greater Palmer area in the senate.

There will be a Celebration of Life at the Northgate Alaska Church in Wasilla on May 31 at 2:00 p.m.

Hughes announced her run for governor in July of 2025.

This is a developing story.