Billy R. Rush

Billy R. Rush, 69, of Hilliard and formerly of Bucyrus, died early Saturday, June 24, 2023 at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus after weeks of failing health.

He was born June 7, 1954 in Bucyrus to the late Bill L. Rush and Janis M. (Orewiler) Rush who survives. Billy graduated from Col. Crawford High School in 1972 and studied machine trades at Bucyrus High School. He worked as a machinist for The Timken Co. from 1973-2008 and studied Theology and Christian Education at Mount Vernon Nazarene University. He married Jennifer (Krull) Fannin in 2010 and they settled in Hilliard.

Billy will be remembered for his analytical mind, attention to detail, self-reliance, and encyclopedic knowledge for his varied interests. As with many in the Rush family, every project he put his mind to was done well. A jack of all trades, he built his home and helped many others on countless projects. Billy was a lifelong vegetarian who loved animals and kept a vast garden. He was a man of faith who loved his God and country. Billy also dabbled in photography and loved compiling photos and albums for his family.

Billy is survived by his wife, Jenni Rush; mother, Janis; children, Sarah Rush, Roy Rush (Kim Blakley), and Cheyenne Rush; stepson, Joseph Fannin II; grandchildren, Marie, Audra, Artemis, Calypso, Ezio, Emory, and Evelyn; former wife, Rose Kingston; former daughter-in-law, Amy Rush; brother, Roger (Phyllis) Rush; sister, Rita (Rodney) Rush Daly; and his much-loved nieces and nephews. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by stepdaughter, Ashley Gill.

The Rush family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 28 from 4-7 pm at Wise Funeral Service, 129 W. Warren St. in Bucyrus. A private graveside funeral will be held, and he will be laid to rest in Fairview Cemetery, Wayne County.

Memorial donations in lieu of flowers are encouraged to be made payable to a charity of the donor's choice and given through the funeral home. Memories and photos can be shared on Billy’s Tribute Wall.