Pugh, Leslie Cline

Leslie Cline Pugh (affectionately known as Les) of Floyd, went to his eternal rest with God on December 5, 2022. Les, the youngest of three children, was born in Floyd, Virginia on September 1, 1927 to O.C. Pugh and Evie Gladys (Sumner) Pugh.

He graduated from Floyd High School in 1945. After high school, Les served his country: joining the Merchant Marines for 2 years and then enlisting in the US Army as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. After his time of service he married the love of his life, Joyce Bowman in 1949 and graduated with a degree in Agricultural Engineering from Virginia Tech in 1951. They cultivated a life on their Easter Creek Farm in Floyd, Virginia with their sons, John and Robert, raising livestock, and tending the land.

Les worked for over 40 years at the Radford Arsenal, ultimately becoming the Operations Director. He was so beloved at the Arsenal that when he retired, they threw a huge party and had a parade with Les riding the fire truck. Together with Joyce, they were a force for good in the community, always willing to lend a helping hand. Les was on the Board of Directors for the New River Valley Community College and the Citizens Telephone Company. When he retired, he enjoyed continuing to work the farm, playing tennis (which he enjoyed until his 80s) and traveling the world (from Egyptian pyramids to African safaris and adventures in Europe, South America and Australia).

Les also had an affinity for basset hounds and had several beloved canine companions, mostly named Homer. He did great things because he was a great man that loved Jesus. He played the organ for over 50 years at Mt. Elbert Methodist Church and his faith was an integral part of his daily life.

Les was preceded in death by his parents and siblings. He is survived by his devoted wife of 73 years Joyce, his two sons and their wives John & Sue of Southport, North Carolina and Robert & Theresa in Riner, Virginia, 4 grandchildren (Brian, Veronica, Matthew, and Amanda) and 8 great-grandchildren (and counting!).

He lived a long life full of purpose, family, love and adventure and the world is a much better place for his 95 years in it. Many heard Les repeat the line, “True greatness is seldom, if ever, appreciated in its own time” and yet he was admired for his greatness during his life and he will always be remembered for his remarkable legacy.

Interment will at the Sunset Cemetery in Christiansburg this Friday, December 9, 2022 at 1 p.m. The Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. at Horne Funeral Service. A reception will be held at Mount Elbert Methodist Church following the service.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to New River Community College Educational Foundation.