Leroy John Pugh

On July 21, 2025, the spirit world took a spirit before his time was finished on earth. After the physical fell to cancer, Leroy John Pugh joined his mother, Theresa, and brother, Larry, in the spiritual plane. Against his will, he leaves his daughters Lanessa Casica, Kaylena, and Taryn Pugh; grandchildren Remi and Rowan Casica, Isabella and Levi Pugh; his father Daniel Pugh and siblings Lori Montoya and Lyle Pugh.

Leroy was born in Pomona, CA on a Friday afternoon - December 8, 1967 - where he lived until 1980, when the family moved to Colorado. After attending four different high schools, Leroy graduated from Mapleton High on June 3, 1986. A self taught artist, Leroy turned that passion for art into a career of graphic design after graduating from the Denver Institute of Technology with a 4.0 grade average and several class awards.

In 1990, Leroy began his proudest role as a loving father to Lanessa. For the first two years of her life, they were inseparable. That close bond lasted through his life as they could always spend hours talking. In 1992, he became a father for the second time after welcoming daughter Kaylena. She was his Princess and he was her King. One of their favorite things to do was go to the movie theater to watch classic films. Another two years later in 1994, he welcomed his third and final daughter Taryn. Marking one of his most memorable moments by cutting an umbilical cord for the first time. He affectionately referred to her as his “beloved mini-me”.

A talented graphic design artist with an eye for detail, Leroy was always drawing—creating art that reflected his passions and soul. He was known for his sharp wit, endless movie quotes, deep love of Prince, and his fondness for superheroes. Whether singing along to his favorite tunes or talking baseball, Leroy brought energy and warmth to every room he entered. As a kid, he played little league for the Giants and grew into a lifelong fan of both the California Angels and the Colorado Rockies. He especially loved when the two teams played against each other.

Leroy’s deep love of Prince led to one of the most important friendships of his life. While standing in line for tickets to the Lovesexy World Tour he met Jesse Esparza—who would become his lifelong best friend and “brotha.” Their bond lasted nearly 37 years, rooted in music, laughter, and unwavering loyalty.

After years of working for companies such as The Integer Group, Dex Media, and Royal Printing Solutions he was able to retire at the age of 55. He spent the remainder of his days doing what he loved: drawing, eating delicious food, and spending quality time with family and friends.

In his final days, he was lovingly cared for by his cousin Candace “Candy” Miller. The two were often called “the twins,” since they were born just 2 months apart. Candy selflessly volunteered to be his primary caretaker, and the girls would like to express their deepest gratitude to Candy’s dedication to his care. The girls would also like to thank their Aunt Lori and Uncle Lyle for their support. It means more than words can say.

Leroy made sure his daughters never left without hearing “I love you.” His love was constant, his presence grounding, and his humor a gift we’ll carry forward.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

"When love calls, you gotta go." - Prince