[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 94 (Thursday, June 7, 2018)]
[Senate]
[Pages S3289-S3290]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      REMEMBERING EMMETT PUGH III

  Mrs. CAPITO. Mr. President, I wish to acknowledge the recent loss of 
one of West Virginia's best and brightest and recognize the life of a 
good man, kind friend, and dedicated public servant, Emmett Pugh III.
  Emmett was widely known for his accomplishments as the city of 
Beckley's longest serving mayor, and while his positive impact on the 
city was immeasurable, Emmett was the sort of person who had a positive 
impact on the lives of everyone he met. Countless people benefited from 
the work, words, and kindness of Emmett Pugh throughout his life.
  Emmett was a native son of Beckley, WV, and came from a long 
tradition of public service that followed him to the University of 
Alabama. While at Alabama, he cultivated a deep love for two things: 
the Crimson Tide and his hometown. After earning a degree in political 
science, with a focus on State and local government, Emmett returned 
home to serve as the president of Bowl-Wick, Inc., a bowling center 
that brought joy and entertainment to the citizens of Beckley for many 
years.

[[Page S3290]]

  In 1979, Emmett began his long career in public service as a 
councilman-at-large. In 1988, upon the death of the current mayor, 
Emmett stepped up and began his tenure as the longest serving mayor in 
Beckley's history. During his time in office, he expanded city limits, 
led a razing campaign on deteriorated properties, and established two 
new fire stations. He also helped lead the development of the Beckley 
Intermodal Gateway, the Rahall Company Store at New River Park, 
Thornhill Courts, Freedom Park, Jim Word Memorial Park, and the Lewis 
McManus Trail, among other accomplishments. In 1988, he was named Mayor 
of the Year for his efforts.
  When Mayor Pugh left office in 2013, his positive impact on the 
community and State did not stop. He continued to inspire all whom he 
encountered and acted as a mentor to his successors and any who sought 
his advice. He also continued in his role as a family man, and he is 
survived by his wife, their three children, two step-children, and 
eight grandchildren. Emmett's passion for Beckley and West Virginia 
lives on, and I think I speak for many when I say that he will be 
sorely missed.

                          ____________________