07/29/2025
We are honored to announce the creation of the Larry Elmore Memorial Scholarship at Tennessee Tech University, established by David and Betty Jo Pesterfield to celebrate the life and legacy of Larry Elmore. Larry, former President of Pugh CPAs in Knoxville, passed away on March 2, 2025. A proud Tennessee Tech alum and respected leader in the accounting profession, Larry dedicated his career to mentoring young professionals, shaping industry standards and serving his community with unwavering integrity.
“Larry was a steadfast advocate for the accounting profession and a mentor to many,” said Barrett Simonis, President of Pugh CPAs. “He elevated the standards by instilling integrity, excellence, and purpose in all who had the privilege to work with him. Our firm and profession are better because of Larry Elmore’s legacy of hard work, character, and leadership.” Larry retired from Pugh CPAs in 2019.
The Larry Elmore Memorial Scholarship at Tennessee Tech will support upperclassmen accounting majors from East Tennessee, with preference given to those pursuing a MAcc degree—reflecting Larry’s lifelong passion for the profession and his deep commitment to education and mentorship.
To contribute to this lasting tribute to an extraordinary man, visit www.tntech.edu/giving and select Larry Elmore Memorial Scholarship from the dropdown menu.
