The town of Watertown, Connecticut, is grieving the sudden loss of Town Council Member Michele McHugh, a beloved public servant, entrepreneur, and community figure whose passing has left residents, colleagues, and friends searching for words.
Town Manager Mark A. Raimo issued an official statement on May 26, 2026, confirming the news and expressing the town’s sorrow.
“This loss is being felt throughout the community by those who knew Michele personally, worked alongside her, or simply experienced her kindness and generosity,” Raimo said.
In her honor, town flags have been lowered, a tribute to her brief but meaningful time in public service.
A Life Built Around Community
Michele McHugh wore many hats in Watertown. She was the founder and owner of Hawk Ridge Winery, which has grown into the top destination winery in the state of Connecticut.
She was also a devoted wife to Dr. Jack McHugh, a proud mother, and a grandmother with another grandchild on the way at the time of her passing.
Those who knew her describe a woman who gave freely of her time and energy. A fellow Notre Dame Academy alumna recalled her warmth and noted that Michele had been involved in planning their upcoming 50th class reunion. Others remembered her as young, vibrant, and full of life.
Friends on social media flooded comment sections with messages for her husband, Jack, and her children.
“Jack, I am so saddened to hear of the loss of your lovely wife,” wrote one commenter. Another said simply, “Heartbreaking news.” The McHugh name was repeated again and again alongside words like shock, disbelief, and grief.
From Business Owner to Public Servant
Michele’s entry into local government came roughly a year before her death, when a fellow community leader encouraged her to run for Town Council.
“I picked up the phone and called Michele and asked her to get involved,” wrote a local political figure in a public tribute. “I told her she would make an excellent council woman and boy was I right.”
In her short time on the council, she was described as a natural communicator and a quick study. She took the role seriously, engaging directly with residents and diving into the challenges facing the town.
The week before her passing, she attended a memorial service for the late John Gavallas, where she reportedly said she could only hope to accomplish half of what he had done for the community.
Town Manager Raimo noted that although her tenure on the council had only just begun, she approached every responsibility with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to serve. “She believed in Watertown and valued the people who make it such a special place,” he said.
Information about memorial arrangements is expected to be shared in coordination with the McHugh family in the days ahead.
Anyone seeking additional information can contact Town Manager Mark A. Raimo at [email protected] or by phone at 860-945-5255.
The loss of Michele McHugh leaves a void that will not easily be filled. To her husband Jack, her children, grandchildren, and all who loved her, the town of Watertown extends its deepest sympathies. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.
