Described by community leaders as a "humble and unassuming leader," former DeRidder Mayor Creighton Pugh was remembered yesterday during a Funeral Mass at St. Joseph's Catholic Church. He was later buried in the Woodland Cemetery in DeRidder. Pugh passed away Thursday, June 26 in Lake Charles.

Pugh served the City of DeRidder in several capacities, best known for his service as the city's Mayor from 1978 to 1986.

After serving his country in World War II, where he became a highly-decorated combat veteran, the Singer native returned to Louisiana to pursue his education in law.  After graduating from LSU Law School, he returned to Beauregard Parish.  However, instead of immediately practicing law, he ran a successful building supply business.  According to family friend and civic leader Vincent Labue, "Creighton again answered the call of his community to service when he was elected to the DeRidder City Council.  He served the community with distinction and after the sudden death of Mayor Frank Delia, naturally Creighton offered himself to serve as Mayor.  For eight years he served as the Mayor of DeRidder."  

Later, he returned to his private legal practice, until being asked to serve as Judge of DeRidder City Court.   Judge Stuart Kay, 36th Judicial District, spoke fondly of his colleague, "He was a fine, fine gentleman and an excellent public servant. When he came back to DeRidder after serving in WWII, he went into the business side of things, and became a business leader. I worked with him as a city judge when he was mayor and he was very interested in the courts and very helpful. When Judge Nichols resigned, Creighton stepped in and filled the position until it was dissolved by the legislature. "

After his service as Judge, Pugh returned to private practice. He also served as Merryville's City Judge and their City Attorney.

DeRidder Mayor Ron Roberts remembers Pugh as a mild-mannered, yet progressive leader, "Mayor Pugh spoke with a soft voice, but he was always well informed.  His intention was to promote progress in DeRidder.  We will miss him.  We will remember him fondly."

Labue recalled Pugh's gentle nature, as well, "He was always courteous and humble.  He never exhibited arrogance toward anyone or any group and was always happy to meet with any citizen no matter how trivial the matter or how unreasonable the request.  As City Judge he was praised for his fairness and compassion for those who came before the court."
 
Pugh is survived by his wife of 46 years, Frances Pugh, and their two sons.