The International Save the Pun Foundation posthumorously named George McClughan as its Punster of the Year for 2002. In a private ceremony prior to this year's Pun-Off the prestigious award was presented to his widow, Deborah Myers.

The late George McClughan was a major part of the success of the Annual O.Henry Pun-Off World Championships, not only as a competitor, organizer and Master of Ceremonies but as its historian.

For 12 years he videotaped and broadcast the proceedings, spreading these unique images to the world. He was also the producer of "The Pun Zone" a monthly cable television show which he co-hosted with Gary Hallock for more than 5 years.

Even in his absence, George's presence was keenly felt this year through many tributes. In his honor, The O.Henry MVP award, voted upon by the Pun-Off competitors, was rededicated as "The McClughan Memorial Most Viable Punster Award."

PUN-SMOKE, the recently premiered documentary film about the 2002 Pun-Off, followed George as he battled his way through the final round against Brian Snider. The film was dedicated to George and also included many of his interview excerpts as "bonus features."

Sporting two of his own favorite shirts, a life-sized caricature
effigy of George stood on the stage throughout the 2003 Pun-Off, looking over the shoulders of all participants with an smug smirk of supposed approval.

Probably the most touching tribute to George was the song written and sung by his friend, Steve Brooks, just prior to the final competition at the 26th Annual O.Henry Pun-Off World Championships on May 3 2003.
Here are the lyrics to Steve's musical tribute to George McClughan:

Music: "Jambalaya" by Hank Williams
Words copyright 2002 by Steve Brooks

Goodbye George, you had to go, why oh why oh?
After you took that little dip in Barton Bayou.
Old Saint Pete, can't compete, since you blew in.
Son of a gun, gonna miss your puns, George McClughan

CHORUS
It's bye-bye, to High Lies and to Low Puns.
Can't believe we'll be hearing no mo' puns.
We won't go, quite so low, without you in.
Son of a gun, gonna miss your puns, George McClughan

Adios, to your show, called The Pun Zone,
Austin, Texas won't be such a fun zone.
When Punsters name, a hall of fame, you're a shoo-in.
Son of a gun, gonna miss your puns, George McClughan

CHORUS

By the way, please say Hey, to O.Henry.
Say we still play with words in his memory.
And each May, at the fray, of the hot wits,
Hope you hear, when we cheer, "By George, you've got it!"

CHORUS
You're number one, when it comes to puns, George McClughan!