Kathleen Kelly Pugh

Kathleen Kelly Pugh, affectionately known as Kelly, passed away on Monday evening, January 27th, at the age of 69 after battling cancer. Born in Corpus Christi, Texas, she relocated with her family to Wichita, Kansas at the age of 12. At 19, she enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a Hospital Corpsman. Initially focusing on patient care, she later transitioned to medical administration. In 1982, Kelly was commissioned into the Navy Medical Service Corps while stationed in Hawaii. During her time in Bremerton, Washington, she met and married Joseph W. Pugh, also a Medical Service Corps Officer. The couple's assignments took them to California, Hawaii, and Virginia before they both retired from the Navy in 1994.

After completing 25 years of distinguished military service, Kelly and Joe chose to embrace country living by purchasing a small farm in East Texas. Kelly dedicated herself to tending livestock and had aspirations of teaching. However, she redirected her focus to caring for her parents and Joe until their passing. She formed strong bonds with her stepdaughter Jay, foster daughter Cathi, and their families, alongside building lasting friendships. A passionate sewist, she actively participated in sewing groups and was a member of Red River Quilters. Later in life, she found joy in dancing with Jerry Hollis, whom she married in 2021. Following Jerry's death in 2023, Kelly’s faith deepened profoundly; though a Christian since her twenties, she found immense comfort and love in her faith, supported by her close friends and church community at Brookwood Baptist Church.

Kelly is survived by her two brothers, Bryan Kelly and Patrick Kelly, along with their families; stepdaughter, Jay Brethen and Laura General, and their families; foster daughter, Cathi Kamau, and her family; as well as numerous relatives and friends who will cherish her memory.

A celebration of Kelly’s life will be held at Brookwood Baptist Church, 9014 Brookwood Church Way, Shreveport, LA, 71106, on Thursday, March 6th, at 11:00 AM. Family and friends are invited to a visitation at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Brookwood Ministry Faith and Fostering of Shreveport or a charity of your choice.