Summary (tl;dr)

Paul Avery, known for his role as Hughie on "All My Children," and his wife, Sheila Avery, tragically died in a house fire in Blairstown, New Jersey, on June 16, 2026.

Essential Background

Paul Avery was an 81-year-old actor best recognized for his recurring role as Hughie, the bartender at Foxy's, on the long-running ABC soap opera "All My Children," a role he held for 12 years. Beyond his acting career, which also included appearances in "Superman" and numerous commercials, Avery was a Vietnam veteran, a licensed pilot, an avid skydiver, and the founding executive editor of the local newspaper, the Ridge View Echo. He was also a prominent community member in Blairstown, New Jersey, where he served on the township committee and volunteered for local organizations.

The Full Story

Paul Avery and his wife, Sheila Avery, tragically passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, after their home in Blairstown, New Jersey, caught fire. Emergency responders were called to their Mohican Road home shortly after 12:38 a.m., finding the house engulfed in flames. Both Paul, 81, and Sheila were pulled from the burning residence but died from their injuries shortly thereafter, despite efforts to provide CPR. Their daughter, Kyle Avery, confirmed the devastating news via a Facebook post. Authorities have stated that the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Why It Matters

The deaths of Paul and Sheila Avery have resonated with fans of "All My Children" who remember Avery's long-standing character, Hughie, from the popular soap opera. Beyond his acting legacy, Avery's passing is significant to the Blairstown, New Jersey community, where he was a well-respected figure, known for his diverse achievements as a veteran, journalist, and active civic member. His friend and colleague, Joe Phalon, described him as "the most interesting man in the world" and noted that his death would "leave a real void in this community". The tragic circumstances of the fire have also drawn attention, with ongoing investigations into its cause.

Geographic Location

• Mohican Road, Blairstown, Warren County, New Jersey, United States (house fire and deaths of Paul and Sheila Avery)