Genetta Marie Pugh

Genetta Marie Callihan Dittrich-Pugh, a graceful and determined woman who embodied the spirit of a true Southern lady, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2025, at her home in Knoxville, Tennessee, at the age of 88. Born on September 7, 1936, to Henry Matt Callihan, Sr. and Chelsa Beatrice Yeager Callihan, Genetta was raised with a deep appreciation for family, faith and hard work. With quiet strength and unwavering determination, she built a life marked by elegance, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Genetta carried the traditions and values of her upbringing into everything she did. She was a trailblazer in her own right, running her family’s coal mining company alongside her father with sharp business acumen and unshakable determination—at a time when few women were seen in such leadership roles. Her work ethic was unmatched, and her attention to detail reflected the pride she took in everything she did. She wasn’t afraid to roll up her sleeves but always did so with poise and a signature touch of class. Known for her impeccable sense of style, Genetta always took pride in her appearance. She carried herself with the kind of charm and confidence that left a lasting impression on everyone she met. But beyond the pearls and pressed skirts was a woman of grit, ambition and strength. Genetta was deeply involved in civic life, lending her time, talents and heart to numerous local organizations. She was a past board member of the Knoxville Symphony League and faithfully attended Concord Methodist Church in Knoxville. Those who knew her best will remember her as a woman of strength and substance—classy, a leader and a true lady. Her legacy of hard work, independence and elegance will live on in the lives she touched. Genetta held a firm belief that family and friendship were life’s greatest treasures. In addition to her parents, she was proceeded in death by her late husband Norman Dittrich, sister Wilma Jean Adams, brother Henry Matt (H.M.) Callihan, Jr., brother Ronnie Dale Callihan, and brother-in-law Kenneth Adams. She is survived by her loving husband Will Pugh; step-sons Jim Pugh and Mark Pugh; step-daughter Linda King; and step-sons Lee Dittrich and Karl Dittrich; sister-in-law Carolyn Elizabeth Callihan; nephews Josh Callihan, Matt Callihan III, Gus Callihan, Kenny Adams, Mark Adams and Sean Callihan; a niece Amy Marie Callihan; and a host of great-nieces and nephews and other family and friends to mourn her passing. The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Grady Regas and Jenny Williams for their enduring friendship and care. A celebration of Genetta’s life will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Concord Methodist Church. Friends and family may visit at the church from 1:00 PM until the celebration hour. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her memory to Concord Methodist Church. She was a force, a lady, and a legacy—and she will be deeply missed.

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Genetta Marie Pugh

September 7, 1936 - July 11, 2025