Esther Marie Pugh

Esther Marie Pugh, a cherished member of the Rossville community, passed away at the age of 94 in the comfort of her home on December 19, 2024. Born on February 23, 1930, in Wakeeney, Kansas, she was the daughter of George and Elizabeth Boxberger and was known for her friendship and kindness throughout her life.

Esther graduated from Wakeeney High School and dedicated herself to her family, staying home to raise her four children: Eugene (Carol) Pugh of San Diego, CA, Scott (Janet) Pugh of Paxico, KS, William (Jo) Pugh of Wooster, OH, and Cyndi (Joe) Harmon of Hutchinson, KS. Esther’s matriarchy expanded throughout the decades to include ten grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored.

She would certainly be considered a cornerstone of her community. Esther spent countless hours porch sitting and visiting with countless friends, neighbors and passers-by, and was fondly known for handing out stickers at the grade school. She always kept a kind and watchful eye on the students and staff and throughout the years they have regarded her with a mutual affection including countless handmade cards and a 90th birthday celebration. Esther found so much joy in living across from the grade school and watching decades of children come and go.

Esther had many interests that brought her joy. She loved gardening and cooking. Her homemade dill pickles were the first to disappear at every gathering. She also really enjoyed walking, finding lost little treasures along the way and always looking for the rightful owners of such. Esther was always collecting useful items in search of someone in need. Esther was also a dedicated member of the Rossville Christian Church where she was immersed in the comfort of faith and fellowship and was grateful for so many helpful hands spanning across decades of parishioners. 

In 2005 she endured the loss of her husband, Eugene M. Pugh, for whom she had a deep love and doting adoration for. She was also preceded in death by her parents and several siblings; Elmer, Bill, Ron, Sandy, Ruphina, and Pauline. She is survived by her brother Jerry (Wanda) Boxberger, of Wakeeney. With great sadness, she also mourned the loss of her daughter-in-law Jo Pugh, grandson, Mitchell Pugh and great grandson, Callahan Conner, holding their memories close to her heart.

Esther's family and friends remember her not only for her friendly nature but also for her playful ornery side, leaving a lasting gift of light and laughter to the people around her. Esther Marie Pugh will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her memory will live on, even as her porch swing comes to be still. 

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, on Friday, December 27 at Rossville Christian Church; a visitation will be from 10:00 AM until service time. Following the service, burial will take place in Rossville Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Esther’s memory may be made to Rossville Christian Church, 411 Spruce St., Rossville, KS 66533.