Clarke County Democrat

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Peola Pugh, 85, affectionately known to her family and friends as “Madea,” was called home to her eternal resting place June 2, 2020 in Los Angeles, Calif.

She was born April 2, 1935 in Grove Hill to loving parents, Stephen Pugh and Hattie Pugh. She was the ninth child out of ten children. Completing her education in Alabama, Peola was also a loving and devoted Christian. Accepting Christ at an early age, she attended Mount Zion Baptist Church # 2 of Grove Hill.

Peola, a strong black woman, was a single mother of five children. In 1972, she stepped out on faith and moved to California in order to start her foundation. Peola had a passion for providing for her family and she was known to give you the shirt off her back to help others in need. She also enjoyed going out, having fun with her family and friends, listening to music, shooting pool, going to church, praising the Lord Christ, watching TBN Daily and cooking (especially during the holidays).

To our loving mother and grandmother: You were strong and independent, friendly and kind, loving and caring. You were always thoughtful of others and you were always willing to help. You had a great personality and you were humble, but you were also courageous and outgoing. Everyone knew that you were a very outspoken and serious woman. You let us know outright what was on your mind, at any minute, with a fiery look in your eyes.

Peola leaves to cherish her memories: daughters, Cynthia Pugh, Devon Pugh and Brenda Pugh; son, Melvin Pugh; grandchildren, Jennel Jackson, Latrice Jackson, Donald Johnson, Kevin Johnson, Jessica Johnson, Christine Johnson, Steven Johnson, Malcolm Pugh and Teresa Pugh; great-grandchildren, Treavon Jackson, Orion Velasquez, Jadin Jackson-Magee, Oreyana Velasquez, Courtney Jackson, Deshawn Shavers, Keyshawn Johnson, Kamorah Johnson, Kristina Johnson, Keyshaun  McCants and Kameron McCants; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives and many great friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Annie Mae Martin, Ienz Pugh, Essie Bell-Pugh and an older sister; brothers, J.C. Pugh, Jeremial, Fletcher, Eddie Roy and Evie Lewis Pugh.

Rest in peace “Madea.”

(26-1tp)

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