Hugh Emerson Jarvis' Obituary
Hugh Emerson Jarvis, 85, of Harrison Township, passed on Feb. 24, 2023, after battling lung issues caused by COVID.
Hugh was born on June 24, 1937, to Harold Samuel Jarvis and Vivian (Rhea) Jarvis in Detroit, Mich. He graduated from Cooley High School in 1955 and worked as a cadet for two years with the Detroit Police Department before enrolling at what is now Ferris State University. He later transferred to Michigan State University and received his bachelor’s degree in history in 1960 and a master’s degree in social science in 1964.
Hugh began his teaching career with East Detroit Public Schools at Grant Junior High, later transferring to Kelly Junior High in 1966. In 1967, he was appointed president of the East Detroit Federation of Teachers. From 1969-1970, Hugh was the staff representative for the American Federation of Teachers. He was president of the Michigan Federation of Teachers and School Related Personnel, now known as AFT Michigan, from 1981 to 1996. Former Michigan Governor James Blanchard appointed Hugh to the Northern Michigan Board of Control where he served from 1985-1993, chairing the board from 1989-91.
He was a member of the Democratic Party serving as a state party officer and a delegate to the national conventions in 1988 and 1992. He also served on both the Executive Council of the Michigan State AFL-CIO and the Metropolitan Detroit AFL-CIO.
He was best known as a devoted partner, great brother, caring and supportive uncle, friend to all who met him, teacher, powerful labor leader, and a role model for activism and commitment to the greater good. His humility, charisma and courage inspired all those around him to do better. He was fun-loving and caring.
Hugh was an avid pheasant hunter, fisherman, and sports fan spending much of his retirement at his Douglas Lake cottage or going to MSU football games, never missing a Spartan-Wolverine game in more than 60 consecutive years.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Ray Jarvis, sister-in-law, Barbara Howlett Jarvis (Dale), and nephew, Clayton Jarvis. Hugh is survived by his partner of 27 years, Alice Andrews, his brother Dale Jarvis, five nieces, three nephews, three great nieces, and two great nephews.
The family is planning a private memorial this summer at Douglas Lake. To honor Hugh’s legacy, contributions may be made to his union’s Reclaim the Promise Fund at AFT Michigan, 2661 East Jefferson, Detroit, Mich., 48207. The fund will assist locals and remind them of Hugh’s tremendous work. Visit www.rudyfuneral.com to light a candle or leave a message of remembrance.
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