J.R. Pugh

Mr. James Robert “J.R.” Pugh Jr., age 88 of Murfreesboro, TN passed away August 13, 2026. He was born in Nashville, TN to the late James R. Sr. and Ada Crutcher Pugh. J.R. grew up in Goodlettsville. He was educated at Goodlettsville High School, Freed Hardeman College, and University of Tennessee at Martin. Brother Pugh served as a Minister of the Gospel for 58 years in the Churches of Christ.

J.R. loved gardening, growing flowers, fishing, and studying the Word of God. He preached across North America and traveled to Nigeria as a missionary. As a pulpit minister, he loved working across the 3 grand divisions of Tennessee, from Reelfoot Lake to Roan Mountain.

J.R. is survived by his wife of 68 years, Judith Ellen Ray Pugh; children, Jay Pugh and his wife Phyllis, Christi Pugh, and Jon Pugh; grandchildren, Naomi, Jesse and his wife Brandi, and Micah and his wife Hannah; 2 great grandchildren; sister, Ann Walden and her husband Don; nephew, Mark Walden and his wife Sandi; special brother-in-law, Jack Ray; nieces; great nephew; and a number of dear cousins.

The family asks memorials to be made to Alive Hospice, 1718 Patterson St, Nashville, TN 37203 and Foundation Christian Academy, 2480 Three Springs Rd, Bowling Green, Ky 42104.

Services will be kept private.