UPS legend retires leaving a legacy of dedication and excellence

For more than 62 years, Eddie Hughes has been a steady presence at UPS. Now, at 81 years old, he’s saying goodbye and retiring from the company where he built his career and made lasting friendships.

“UPS is the only job I ever had,” Eddie laughed. “I still feel like I’m 18 years old and could keep going, but my wife said it was time to go.”

In the beginning: Eddie started working at UPS back in 1963, when he moved from Mt. Pleasant, Mississippi to Indianapolis, looking for new opportunities. He began as a package handler and quickly realized he loved the work. Even after serving in the United States Army for a short time, Eddie returned to UPS in 1968 and never looked back.

“I still had my job seniority when I came back from the Army,” he recalls. “UPS held my job it was like I never left.”

A road pro: Through the decades, Eddie drove tractor-trailers across nearly 5 million miles. He earned his place in UPS’s Circle of Honor for his incredible safe driving record – 51 years without an accident. Eddie says he doesn’t count the years because he treats each day as a new day.

“You have to think like a rookie to drive like a pro.”

Lasting impact: Now, as Eddie begins retirement, his coworkers are celebrating his legacy. Many call him “Number One” because he sets the standard for what it means to be reliable and hardworking. His journey proves that you don’t have to be famous to inspire others – sometimes, showing up every day and giving your best can change lives.

Eddie’s story is a reminder that passion, dedication and kindness matter. As he steps into retirement to enjoy his pension, he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to motivate those who follow in his footsteps.

Check out these facts about UPS retirement benefits for drivers:

• In 2024 alone, UPS contributed more than $9 billion to employee health, welfare and pension benefits.
• Paid pensions like those offered at UPS are rare. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 15% of private industry workers have access to a defined benefit plan.