CFA News

John's skill, professionalism and exceptional achievements in the circus world have gained national and international recognition.

There is a John W. Pugh Ring of the Circus Model Builder's Association, and a John W. Pugh Tent of the Circus Fans Association of America. At the request of H.S.H. Rainier III, John served as a judge of the prestigious International Circus Festival in Monte Carlo. The United Kingdom's World's Fair Association presented John with its "International Award," and John received Sarasota's Ringling Museum's "Power Behind the Scenes" Award.

John Pugh entered the Circle of Fame on January 17, 2010 with the following being said about him, "Few have done more to preserve the traditions of the traveling, 3-Ring Tented American Circus."

John is survived by his wife Brigitte Pugh; sisters Carol Moore, Janice Bell, and Sherry Nassif; brother Pete Whitaker; sister-in-law Jutta Toth; and close family member Tetyana Sinovyat.

A visitation of family and friends will take place on Saturday March 1, 2025 at 1:00 PM. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 PM and both will be held at Lankford Funeral Home in DeLand, FL.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of John Wallace Pugh, please visit our flower store.