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Kelly Pugh Obituary
December 3, 1959 -- October 20, 2013
Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Kelly Michael Pugh, 53, passed away at her Myrtle Beach residence on October 20, 2013. Despite succumbing to ovarian cancer after a courageous three-and-a-half year battle, Kelly prevailed in dying at home and beside two of the people she loved the most, her husband Jack David Pugh and her sister Tracy Vardeman.
Kelly was born in Greenwood, S.C., on the third day of December, 1959. She grew up in the small North Georgia town of Trion, where she graduated as salutatorian of her high school class in 1977. She went on to attend Young Harris College for two years and then Clemson University, where she graduated in 1981 with a degree in business administration.
Following college, she moved to Myrtle Beach, S.C., where she spent the majority of her career as a human resources executive. Prior to her illness, Kelly worked for more than two decades with Beach Cove Resorts, where she oversaw personnel relations for multiple resort properties throughout the Myrtle Beach area.
A graceful, statuesque blonde standing five foot 12 inches (as she liked to describe her height), Kelly reveled in modeling for numerous Myrtle Beach charity events. However, her greatest joy came from simple pleasures, spending time at home with gourmet meals prepared by her husband Jack; hiking the mountains from North Carolina to Mount Rainier in Washington; or kicking back to enjoy precious family time during the holidays.
Despite her short life, Kelly lived it to the fullest, always smiling through hardship while keeping her illness private so that others would not be burdened.
Kelly is preceded in death by her parents Malbourne Grady Michael and Lillian Walser Michael. Survivors include her husband of 14 years, Jack David Pugh of Myrtle Beach; brothers and sisters-in-law John Michael and Cheryl Cowherd of Atlanta, and Patrick and Debra Michael of Carrollton, Ga.; sister Tracy Michael Vardeman and brother-in-law John Vardeman of Gainesville, Ga.; and niece and nephew Ella Thomas Vardeman and Grady Michael Vardeman, whom she loved as if they were own her children.
Kelly will be laid to rest on the grounds of the Honey Creek Woodlands nature conservation area in Conyers, Ga. Memorial services will be held for family and close friends at the First United Methodist Church in Gainesville, Ga., and the home of Jim and Rhonda Daniels in Myrtle Beach.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Kelly's honor to the Guy Daniels Memorial Foundation in Myrtle Beach, S.C. (www.surfoff.com); or to Eagle Ranch, a home in Chestnut Mountain, Ga., for children and families in crisis (www.EagleRanch.org).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kelly Pugh
Elizabeth Burgess
October 20, 2024
You are never forgetting.
The Grace ,Kindness, and Beautiful Soul are always in our hearts.
Angel Girl...
Elizabeth Burgess
October 22, 2023
When I met Kelly her beautiful Soul and Spirit were intense. She always smiled. Cheerful and a pure joy to know as a friend and Co-worker. I will always keep her spirit alive in my heart. She is missed very much. Heaven surely us where she is. I pray for the loved ones that miss her. Gone way too soon.
True love .....
Your Husband misses you ....
Pam Shelley
October 17, 2023
WOW! You left us TEN years ago! But the light of your memory lives on on our hearts. Please watch over us crazy girls - we need it! Love you forever...
Pam Shelley
October 23, 2022
Kelly, It's hard to believe you left us 9 years ago. I still think of you often and all of the wonderful times we all had together. Miss you and love you!
Pam Shelley
October 21, 2015
Its been two years now since Kelly left us. Can't believe she is gone but know that she is watching over us. Thinking of you and miss you Kelly.
Lisa Kelley
October 20, 2014
Today is the one year anniversay of Kelly Kelly's death. She was taken way too soon. Her grace, beauty and extraordinary spirit lives on and she will be forever missed by all who knew her. Rest in peace my Dear Friend.
October 17, 2014
My sweet loving sister -- forever in my heart. You were literally my soul sister and my life on this earth will forever be marked with the loss of your physical presence. Beauty, Grace and Open Heart.
Lynn Willmon Norton
October 27, 2013
One week ago today, Heaven gained anothet Precious Angel. R.I.P. Kelly
Corey Drake
October 27, 2013
Jack
I send my sincerest condolences to you and Kelly's family. From the time I spent along side you, I had the privledge of working with a fantastic nurse and more so a loving husband. It is unfortunate that I only got to know your wife through the stories you shared with me. It would have been terrific to have actually met her. I can only imagine how great she was. I wish you the best with making it through such a difficult time. I sent my warmest thoughts to you my friend.
Sincerely,
Corey Drake
Michael Gomes
October 26, 2013
My thoughts and prayers for Kelly and her family. I knew her as the HR manager and the the go to person for work related stuff and very good at it.
tho' it might not seem this way now, the Lord has a reason for all.
Jennie Cameron
October 26, 2013
Jack,
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Stephanie Martin
October 26, 2013
Jack, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Kelly. Sending hugs and strength for the upcoming challenges you and those that love her will face.
Karen Creighton
October 26, 2013
Dear Jack and Family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Kelly is in heaven and will figure out a way to help you all through your pain. Kelly was and still is a beautiful person inside and out.
I had the pleasure of working with Kelly for many years at Beach Cove and Ocean Creek Resort. Kelly put such thought and understanding into her job and treated everyone with respect.
Kelly always acted with beautiful class and intelligence in everything she did.
What a fabulous talent to be as organized as Kelly. She was amazing.
It was always fun to see her in one of
her gorgeous outfits than no one could wear better than she. I remember running into Kelly as usual dressed to the tens. This day a suede jacket, a dropped cowl neck shell, dress slacks, a french beret, perfect makeup, boots matched to belt, beautiful bouncy hair, and her beautiful smile. It is so nice to remember a really special lady as a true, real person that wanted the best for all who came to her for advice or help. Cheers Kelly. See you again.
Karen Creighton
Grace Hackett
October 25, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with Kelly and her family. Heaven has just received a precious gem! Kelly was always so patient with Tracy and I(growing up and invading her bedroom to try to play with her stuff). I will never forget how kind and so "Big Sister" she was to us!
Barbara Zigler
October 25, 2013
Jack, I am truly sorry for the loss of your beloved wife,Kelly. I am thinking about you.
Linwood, NC.....1970? Kelly, Marianne, Kitty, Beth, David, Ben, Tracy
October 25, 2013
Family Reunion Summer 1959.....Kelly in stroller
October 25, 2013
Circa late 90's
Pam Shelley
October 25, 2013
Halloween with Karen, Pam & Kelly...early 90's
Pam Shelley
October 25, 2013
Halloween with JoAnne, Sabena, Pam & Kelly
Pam Shelley
October 25, 2013
Pam's Baby Shower in 2004
Pam Shelley
October 25, 2013
October 25, 2013
Pam, JoAnne & Kelly...Christmas Party 1998
Pam Shelley
October 25, 2013
Mike Dugan
October 25, 2013
Jack,
My deepest condolences to you and family at this difficult time. I enjoyed the many years I worked with her, she was the consummate professional. She will be missed.
Limo Night..Late 80's with Pam, Karen, Sabena, Teri, Ellen, Kelly
Pam Shelley
October 25, 2013
Cathy Byrnside & Kelly..Bachelorette Party
Pam Shelley
October 25, 2013
Kelly's Bachelorette Party in Myrtle Beach
October 25, 2013
We loved to celebrate Halloween..Pam & Kelly
October 25, 2013
Teri Larkin, Pam Shelley & Kelly...early 90's
Pam Shelley
October 25, 2013
Pam Shelley, Terri Larkin & Kelly. early 90's
October 25, 2013
Elizabeth Burgess
October 25, 2013
Heaven surely has a Angel....My thoughts are with you and I send you love....I respect and always enjoyed talking to Kelly.....she is very missed.....hope your heart heals with time.
October 25, 2013
Jack,
I'm so sorry to hear of your wife passing. We all love you here at MUSC.
-Alicia Hinz
James & Teresa Snow
October 24, 2013
To all the family: Teresa and I are so sorry to hear about Kelly. We really enjoyed the years she went to Trion school and the MYF youth group. We went on a lot of youth trips- and with Tracey as well. May God's peace and comfort be with you.
James & Teresa Snow
Anita Scuticchio
October 24, 2013
I had the pleasure of working with Kelly at Beach Colony Resort. She is a very beautiful and strong women. My prayers go out to her friends and family.
Leslie Adams
October 24, 2013
Jack, Thinking about you during this difficult time. Even though I did'nt know kelly, I know how much you loved and cherished her. May the Spirits of healing and comfort be with you and all who loved her!
Donna Whetstone
October 24, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I had the pleasure of knowing Kelly through work and she was such a lovely person. She will be missed by many.
Patsy Peppi
October 24, 2013
Kelly was a ray of Sunshine-always with a smile and laughter.She will be missed dearly-although there is a new star in the sky.
David Snow
October 24, 2013
Many fond memories of Kelly back to the Trion days in school, the band, and at the Methodist church...Kelly was from a wonderful family, she was a great person, a good personal friend, and a confidant for me. I will miss her, and will see her again some day. My deepest condolences to the family.
Lynn Willmon Norton
October 24, 2013
I am sadden to hear the passing of Kelly, I always thought the would of her in school and as my neighbor on Myers Ave. So sorry Tracy and to her family You will be in my prayers. Kelly was so sweet and beauitful.
Alicia Creel Bame
October 24, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. Kelly will be missed!
Lynze Eades
October 23, 2013
Jack,
I'm so sorry for your loss. Your in my thoughts.
Pam Shelley
October 23, 2013
Kelly.... I was privileged to have you as a friend for nearly 30 years... Beginning with the 80's high impact aerobics days! We went through some tough times together & you were always there with your words of encouragement and nonjudgmental way. Then Jack came along & you two were perfect for each other & I was so happy for both of you! Even though we drifted apart due to life's ever changing direction, I always knew you were there & I am so glad we got together a few months ago. Jack, prayers are with you through this trying time & Kelly I love & miss you!
Sarah Broome/Rives
October 23, 2013
Prayers for the family. Have many fond memories that were shared with this family.
Mark Nickel
October 23, 2013
Jack, Cristy an I are so sorry for your loss. I'm sorry I haven't been in touch with you guys more often. Do know that I/we love you. You and Kelly's family are in our prayers.
Beth Poole
October 23, 2013
My family was blessed with Kelly....her courage, vitality, and beauty will remain in our hearts. Jack, Tracy, John V., Ella, Grady, John M., and Patrick,...may God's healing memories hug you tight in the days ahead..Danny and Beth Poole (Jacqui& Greg and Abby & Andrew )
Jennifer & Justin Watkins
October 23, 2013
Jack,
I can't imagine what you're feeling, but I do know that you and Kelly were blessed to have each other for the time that she was here. I'm praying for you. Love you!
jo ann thomas clements
October 23, 2013
My deepest sympathy to Kelly's family. I have fond memories from school.
Kenyatta Moore
October 23, 2013
She was my HR director for some years when I worked for Ocean Creek. I always admired her strength, and her professionalism. She had been on my mind the last couple of years. She will truly be missed, she was an amazing person. Condolences to her loved ones. Prayers for you through this time of grieving.
Joan Tanner/Henry
October 23, 2013
So very sorry for your loss. Kelly was such a beautiful woman. She will be missed.
Sally Peek
October 23, 2013
Tracy and family - I am so sorry to hear of Kelly's death. She was a dear friend for many years growing up and I will never forget her humor and the fun we had! Her obituary is beautiful. Take care,
Sally Peek
Marianne Hicok
October 23, 2013
Our heartfelt sympathy and love in memory of a truly vibrant, beautiful and loving person. Kelly was my cousin and I will remember happy times when we were children and visited with our extended families. I will remember her courage and love always. My family and I are thinking of Jack, Tracy and John, Ella, and Grady, John Michael, and Patrick Michael as they grieve, and move towards healing. Kelly, you will be deeply missed!
Wayne Durham
October 23, 2013
So sorry to learn of the loss of Kelly. I will always have fond memories of Kelly from our times at school.
Mary Hannah
October 23, 2013
Jack, Kelly and I went to high school,MYF,and band together. Although we lost touch over time, she was a player in many good memories! You are in my thoughts and prayers.
October 23, 2013
Jack,
I have no words. My heart is aching for you. I so enjoyed the few times I had the pleasure of spending with Kelly. She was a true beauty, inside and out. We are all thinking of you and praying for you and Kelly's family. We love you and miss you.
Katherine, Charlie, Emma and Bubs
Ivonne Haskins
October 23, 2013
Thinking of you Jack. I am so sorry for your loss. ??
Suzee, Lisa and beautiful Kelly
October 23, 2013
Kelly loved a good party! So much fun!
October 23, 2013
Party Time!
October 23, 2013
Lisa and Kelly
October 23, 2013
Genevieve, Shane and Kelly
October 23, 2013
October 23, 2013
Debbie Howell
October 23, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Kelly from attending school with her in Trion. I have thought of her often over the years even though we had lost touch. When we graduated from seventh grade, she gave me a pink pin and I wear it often. I get comments on the pin and I always say a dear friend gave it to me. May God grant peace and comfort to you and your family. Debbie Dover Howell, Class of 1977
Martha Floyd
October 23, 2013
Jack, no one can begin to know the pain and grief you and Kelly's family are feeling. My heart goes out to you. Keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers.
Jack, Kelly and Jerry
October 23, 2013
Ruth & J.C. Grimes
October 23, 2013
So sorry for your loss. Praying for all of you.
J.C. & Ruth Grimes
Debbie Tyler
October 23, 2013
Kelly was a wonderful person. I am sadden by her passing. My thoughs and prayers are with her family.
Tina Mitchell
October 23, 2013
Jack, my deepest sympathies go out to you and Kelly's family. I know she was the love your of life. Every time I saw her she was always full of joy and laughter. She was truly a blessing to all who knew her. My prayers are with you.
October 23, 2013
Terry Lane
Myrtle Beach,SC
Kelly you was always was kind to me and always ask how i was doing and the family.I will always remember you for your kindness and your smile.
Lisa Krall
October 23, 2013
Deepest sympathies to Mr. Pugh and family. I was very saddened to hear of Kelly's passing. My thoughts are with you all.
Ursula Albin
October 23, 2013
Jack,
I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and you family.
Kaye Sikes
October 23, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. I work at
one of the resorts and always looked up
to Kelly. She was always kind and helpful, always taking time to let your know she cared.
Serge Skiba
October 23, 2013
Jack, my heart sank when I heard the news about your wife's passing . My deepest sympathy to you and Kelly's family.
Beth Hunter Dover
October 23, 2013
Sending deepest sympathy the you and the family.
Vickie (Skates) Young
October 23, 2013
Kelly and I were in Trion High School Band together and we both graduated in 1977. She was always a delight to be around, so pretty inside and out. Even though we had lost contact with each other I thought of her often.
My heart goes out to her family and my prayers are with you. May God give you peace in your hearts and the remembrance of all the good times.
Jo Anne Stevens
October 23, 2013
Jack, Mike and I are devastated. I have to think that Kelly is in heaven right now telling God what to do and organizing heaven. I'm so very sorry, words cannot express.
Sharon Jones
October 23, 2013
Jack, Kelly was so well respected in the COHR organization that she served on the board for so many years. I worked on the board with her and am priviledged to have know her. She will be missed!
Mary Treadwell
October 23, 2013
I grew up with Kelly and Tracy in Trion. I have such fond memories of those days, Girl Scouts, Marching band and other school activities. My prayers are with you all during this time of loss.
Janet Ward
October 23, 2013
Jack,
I am so sorry for your loss. I know she was your world. I pray that you will find peace and comfort in this most difficult time. You are in my prayers.
Cindy Tucker
October 23, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the family. May God comfort you and wrap His arms around the family. Kelly and I were in the marching band and I will always remember those fun and crazy days. She will be missed....Cindy Smith Tucker TRION HIGH SCHOOL CLASS of 1977
October 23, 2013
As a fellow HR professional I knew Kelly well and she was the consummate professional and a kind, loving person. I am so shocked to hear this. My sympathies to the family. She set such a positive example for everyone.
Ron Riggs
linda dellinger
October 23, 2013
Jack,so sorry for the loss of your beautiful wife Kelly. Prayers sent. With my deepest sympathy,Linda Dellinger
Karen Jones
October 23, 2013
You are in my thoughts and prayers
Kelly, Genevieve and Lisa
Lisa Kelley
October 22, 2013
Lisa Kelley
October 22, 2013
Your light will always shine.
Lisa Kelley
October 22, 2013
My Dearest Kelly Kelly, You were such a beautiful person, both inside and out. Kingston's loss was our gain. You will be forever missed and never forgotten. Project Runway will always bring memories of you and a smile to my face. Your amazing gift wrapping skills will never be duplicated. Rest in peace my amazing friend. Jack, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless.
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