Gregory Cushing Rowse

Gregory ("Cush") was born on April 16, 2001 in Rockville, MD and from the very beginning, brought immeasurable joy and pride to the lives of his parents, Thomas and Kimberly Rowse. Though profoundly autistic and unable to express his emotions fully with words, Cush communicated in ways that were unmistakably his own. A gentle giant of a young man, his love shined through in his radiant smile, bouncing with joy, and big hugs. Those who knew Cush understood that some of the deepest expressions of love do not require words.

Gregory's parents were the center of his world, and caring for him was both the greatest challenge and greatest privilege of their lives. Every smile he flashed, every laugh he shared, and every hug he gave was a gift that filled their hearts with happiness. His presence brought meaning, purpose, and joy to their family, and the bond they shared was unbreakable.

Greg approached life with a spirit all his own. He delighted in playing disc golf and bocce, shooting hoops, swimming, dancing, drawing, working jigsaw puzzles, watching movies, celebrating Halloween, people watching at the mall, and spending time outdoors. Whether he was enjoying a favorite activity, jumping waves at the beach, helping take care of horses at Wheaton Stables through the Cura Personalis Project, or sharing a meal with friends and family, Greg found joy in life's simple pleasures and invited others to experience that joy with him.

One of Greg's proudest roles was serving as an Autism Ambassador. He eagerly participated in programs, events, and activities created for him and his fellow Ambassadors. These experiences provided opportunities for friendship, belonging, and celebration, and Greg embraced them with enthusiasm. Through his presence and participation, he helped others see the value, dignity, and unique gifts of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Gregory touched countless lives without ever needing many words. He taught those around him about patience, acceptance, unconditional love, and the many ways people communicate care and affection. He reminded family, friends, and his community that joy can be found in shared experiences, genuine connection, and a welcoming smile.

Cush is survived by his parents, his grandmother Cris Rowse, uncles Jay Rowse, Scott Rowse (Christine), Wayne Weber (Michelle), Mark Weber (Freda) and Francis Weber (Kim); his aunt Lynn Brown and honorary aunt Charlotte Turner. Along with twenty cousins (and counting), he is also survived by his devoted care providers, Eddie LaValie, Michael Allen and Abu Barry and the many people whose lives were made brighter by knowing him.

Gregory's brain was donated to Autism BrainNet to further research in understanding the biological causes of ASD and identifying potential therapeutic targets in the brain. For more information visit http://autismbrainnet.org.

Donations in Gregory's honor may be mailed to: UC Davis MIND Institute Autism BrainNet, Attn: Gayna Guidici, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817 If possible, please note “In Memory of Gregory” in the memo line.

A service will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Rockville on November 14th at 10:00 a.m., followed by a reception at Outta the Way Cafe (Outta the Rabbit Hole) in Derwood.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Rockville, 100 Welsh Park Drive, Rockville, MD 20850

Outta the Rabbit Hole, 17511 Redland Road Derwood, MD 20855

Though Greg's life was far too short, the love he gave, the happiness he shared, and the lessons he taught will remain forever in the hearts of those who loved him. His smile, his hugs, and his gentle spirit will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered every day.