John Allan “Al” Hough

October 3, 1946 – January 30, 2026

John Allan Hough, known to most as Al, passed away at home surrounded by his family after a life defined by creativity, science, and a deep love for his family, friends, and the natural world.

Al was born on October 3, 1946, in Urbana, Illinois, to Mary and Fred Hough. He grew up alongside his siblings Charlie, Betty, and Bonnie, and spent his early years immersed in adventure. Whether caravanning through Liberia in West Africa or working in his father’s orchards and laboratories, his formative experiences cultivated a lifelong appreciation for science and art.

Al attended Illinois State University, earning a master’s degree in Glass Science. He loved education and had a poetic and impassioned relationship with glass, and his intellect and talent allowed him to explore a variety of careers throughout his life. Over the years, Al became a photographer for the Blairstown Press, a news videographer, teacher, driver, artist, and an accomplished and influential glassblower.

On April 8, 1978, Al married the love of his life, Cheryl. They spent time together in Prague and Poland enjoying their shared love for art and exploration, where Al further developed his glassblowing and Cheryl her pottery. Al worked with artists including Dale Chihuly and institutions such as Corning Glass and continued to blow glass for the rest of his life, eventually enjoying a residency with his friends at Gillinder Glass in Port Jervis, NY.

Al and Cheryl settled down in Blairstown, New Jersey in 1980. Living on 14 acres of woodland, Al became a dedicated steward of the forest while he cultivated both the land and their home. In March of 1986, Al and Cheryl welcomed their only child, Erin, to the world. Al was a devoted father and nurtured a sense of curiosity, comedy, creativity, and love in his daughter.

Al also proudly identified as a man of the road and spent many years as a bus operator for Real Transit, driving the Blairstown to New York City route, as well as being a school bus driver. He was an avid motorcyclist who loved riding his BMW bike along the scenic roads of Blairstown, and he happily passed down the joy of riding to his daughter and son-in-law, Dan. As a deeply committed member of his community and a dedicated environmental advocate, Al involved himself in many local organizations throughout the years. He served on the Blairstown Planning Board, as commissioner and chair of the Blairstown Environmental Commission, as a charter member and president of Warren County ARTS, and as Arts Coordinator of the Warren County Cultural and Heritage Commission.

Al was a lifelong learner and teacher and inspired countless people with his mind, his wonderful and dark sense of humor, and his bold perspectives. His love and deep appreciation for the medium of glass made him an exceptional artist. He understood its power and endless possibility and he shared his knowledge and skill generously with others. Through his work and mentorship, he inspired those around him to see science and creativity as inseparable forces. His artwork reflected his sensitivity, his spark of rebellion, and his creative genius that left a lasting mark on the community and beyond.

Above all, Al was a loving husband, father, and grandpa. He is survived by his true love and partner of 50 years, Cheryl Hough; his cherished daughter, Erin Pomponio; his beloved son-in-law, Dan Pomponio Jr.; and his adored granddaughter, Faye Pomponio, age 1. He also leaves behind his loyal dog, Nandi, along with many dear friends and family members.

Al’s legacy is one of love, art, science, and wonder. In his own words, he has now “rejoin(ed) the cosmos as star stuff.” Guided by the wonder of Carl Sagan and Buddhist philosophy, he lived a life fueled by curiosity, mindfulness, and the power of love. He held close Sagan’s belief that, “for small creatures such as we, the vastness is bearable only through love,” and he lived that truth every day.

A retrospective of Al’s art and a celebration of his life will be held at The Inn at Millrace Pond on Sunday, March 8th from 1–3 PM. Buffet food will be provided and all are welcome to come honor him, reflect on his art, and share in the joy of knowing and loving him. His favorite music will be playing for everyone to enjoy in his memory. 

Your love and support mean the most, however the family kindly invites donations to help with end-of-life expenses in lieu of flowers if you wish to honor Al with a gift. Contributions will help cover the costs of his hospice care, cremation, and memorial services, as well as help ease remaining financial obligations so his surviving partner, Cheryl, can continue living as independently and securely as possible. Any contribution is not necessary but deeply appreciated.

Donations may be made at: https://everloved.com/life-of…

Al’s memory will continue to inspire and guide all who were fortunate enough to know and love him. 

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