Mary Ruth Pugh

Mary Ruth Pugh, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and faithful servant of God, entered into eternal rest and was welcomed home by her Lord on January 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Mary Ruth was born in Tallahassee County, Mississippi, spent most of her adult life in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and made her home for the last twenty years in Church Hill, Tennessee. She was a woman of unwavering faith, gentle strength, and quiet grace. Her life was a living testimony of Christ's love. An ordained minister and devoted prayer warrior, she faithfully lifted others in prayer, offered

encouragement, and led by example. Her warm hugs, kind spirit, and beautiful singing voice left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Through every season of life, her faith remained steadfast, and her family was her greatest earthly joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John Melton and Elizabeth Scott; her sisters, Bonnie Melton and Deborah Melton; her brothers, Charles David Melton and Tracy Melton; and her precious great-granddaughter, Nola Pugh, whom she now cradles in her arms in Heaven.

Mary Ruth shared 63 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Charles Pugh, building a home rooted in love, faith, and devotion to family.

She is survived by her loving siblings, Linda Davidson, John Melton, Cindy Kimbro, Ricky Melton, Lilly Rene Melton, Gary Melton and his wife Lisa, and Randy Melton and his wife Bobbie, as well as her lifelong friend and sister in Christ, Colene Brand.

She is also survived by her loving daughters: Grace Shonts; Charlotte Lunsford, wife of Dave Lunsford; Melinda Patton; and Mary Sanderson.

She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Joshua Pugh, husband of Kayla; Korey Pugh and Macey McDuff; Will Patton, husband of Sonja; Cameron Harmon; Kaitlin Patton; and Jessica Shonts.

She was richly blessed with great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy: Makenna, Torstein, Keiley, Beau, Chrie, Brendan, Brantley, Keaton, Kari Ann, Sawyer, Matthew, and Klayton.

Mary Ruth was a faithful member of The Dwelling Place, where she worshiped wholeheartedly and shared her love for gospel music and hymns. One of her favorite songs, "Precious Lord, Take My Hand," beautifully reflected the deep faith she carried throughout her life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Dwelling Place, 4540 University Blvd, Kingsport, TN 37645.

Mary Ruth leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and family that will continue through generations. While she will be deeply missed, her family rejoices in the promise that she is now healed, whole, and at peace in the presence of her Savior.

Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the family, online condolences can be shared with the family on our website at www.trinitymemorialcenters.com.