William Redford Pugh

William Redford Pugh died peacefully at home in his own bed on December 18 at the age of 87 after a long struggle with failing health. Redford was born on October 11, 1926 in Neshoba County, Mississippi and grew up on a farm in Noxubee County. After high school in Brooksville, MS and a stint in the Navy, he attended Mississippi State University. Virulent asthma forced him westward, and he eventually landed in El Paso, where he stayed for 65 years. After graduating from Texas Western College, Redford turned to teaching, his career until retirement in 1984. He was especially proud to be a Master Mason on the Ft. Hancock Masonic Lodge. Redford is preceded in death by his parents, J.J. and Ruby Pugh, brothers Jack Jr., Glen, and Joseph Donald, and his son Gordon. He is survived by his wife of 63 years Jean Allen Pugh, son Stephen Allen Pugh, and grandsons Stephen Thomas Pugh and Gregory Allen Pugh, his sisters, Mary Ann (Moses), Roby Catherine (Moran) and Joyce Jeannette (Nolen). Redford really, really loved his wife, his family, the teaching profession, his cat, Lady, and El Paso. Thanks go to CIMA Hospice (special thanks to Humberto Cardiel!) and caregivers Rosie Garcia, Martha Barraza, grandsons Stephen and Greg, and the Sunday School class at Mt. Franklin Baptist Church. A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, December 23 at 1:00pm at Martin Funeral Home West followed by interment at Memory Gardens of the Valley Cemetery. Services entrusted to Martin Funeral Home West, 128 N. Resler Dr., El Paso, Texas 79912. www.MartinFuneralHomeWest.com