Joanne Katherine Rush

Born on October 1, 1931 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Frank Wesley and Jane Lois ("Lois") Jones, Joanne was the youngest of six children, all of whom survived into adulthood, and grew up in the area of the city known as Sheraden. There, she graduated from Langley High School, and married Mark Alan Rush, Sr. She lived for a time to Virginia while Mark completed his service in the U.S. Navy. Together, they had four children. In 1969, the family moved to Arlington, Texas.

Joanne was a devoted mother, preparing each of her four children for a successful life. In the mid 1970s, she embraced a new challenge, joining the workforce, in the employment of Martin Sprocket & Gear, where she quickly became a valued and productive member of the office staff. She worked there until retirement, meeting along the way several lifelong friends.

Among her many talents, Joanne was an accomplished seamstress, having once created an entire men's suit, among many other items. She was a highly skilled cook; her lasagna, pumpkin pies, and bread stuffing to name only a few of the dishes sure to bring folks to the table; her personal favorite Maine custard pie. And she loved to dance, delighting in an evening out with friends spent on the dance floor.

She is survived by her four children, Mark A. Rush Jr., Arlington, Texas, Lynn A. Blackwell, Idaho Falls, ID, Kathy J. Hawley, Grand Prairie, Texas, and Thomas E. Rush, Olathe, KS; eight grandchildren, Tiffany Madsen, Bryan Blackwell, Aaron Hawley, Sterling Blackwell, Samantha Lefebvre, Austin Blackwell, Mallory Ekstrom, and Tanner Rush; twelve great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Joanne was preceded in death by her former husband, Mark; siblings, Lois Veith, Betty Croker, Fran Protzman, Frank Jones, and Bob Jones; and one great-grandchild, Bruce Blackwell.

Joanne's memory will be kept alive by those who survived her and will sorely miss her, living strong in the hope and faith that they will see her again.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.beanmasseyburge.com for the Rush family.