Delores Burch Rush

Delores Jean Burch Rush, born January 25th, 1936, a woman who lived boldly and passionately, left a mark on the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her life was filled with love, adventure, and a deep commitment to her family, her country, and the joys of travel. Delores married young and by the age of 25, she and her husband had welcomed five children into the world: Julie, Johnny, Jerrell, Bob “Jay,” and Jelena. Her family grew over the years, adding beloved spouses, including Jerrell’s wife Sharon and Jay’s wife Arlene. She was immensely proud of her grandchildren: Jennifer (married to Leff), Jessica, Erin, Justin, Holly, and Jericha, as well as her great-grandchildren: Ian (married to Erin), Emma, Lauren, Braden, Clayton, Jack, Jeremiah, Harley, and Jonathan. She often spoke of her love for family, cherishing every moment spent with them. Delores was deeply patriotic and had a fascinating career that began at the Thiokol plant in Camden County, Georgia, where she worked on solid propellant rocket motors for NASA. In 1971, she survived a catastrophic explosion at the facility, an event that claimed the lives of many friends and colleagues. Her courage and loyalty to her work never wavered, and she continued her career with the Department of Energy at the Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Delores took immense pride in her work and often remarked that working in “The Secret City” felt like living in a real-life James Bond movie. Her love for her country was evident in her patriotic spirit, whether it was through her love of Toby Keith’s music or her collection of red, white, and blue attire for every holiday. Delores also had a deep passion for love itself. She believed in the power of love and encouraged those around her to embrace it fully. She wasn’t afraid to love again after heartbreak and often nudged her grandchildren to do the same, much to their embarrassment. Her granddaughter Lauren held a special place in her heart, and Delores wanted nothing more than for everyone in her life to experience the joy of being in love. Born in Ohio, Delores spent her early years traveling across the Midwest with her father’s career before settling in Savannah, Georgia, where she graduated high school. She lived in many places, including a houseboat and a full-time RV, but her heart was always in the East Tennessee mountains, which she believed were the most beautiful in the world. Delores was also an enthusiastic fan of the Tennessee Volunteers, and she took great pride in her great-grandson Braden’s attendance at the University of Tennessee, always bragging to anyone who would listen. Travel was another great love of Delores’ life. Though she never made it to Europe, she loved researching destinations and planning trips, with a particular fondness for Scottish castles. She spent years traveling the country in an RV and even at 88 years old could recall every major city along every highway. She was quick to offer travel advice, always with a trusty Rand McNally atlas by her side. Even in death, Delores refused to be tied down. She insisted her ashes be released into the ocean so that she could continue her adventures, hoping one day to make it to Europe in spirit. Delores lived life on her own terms, always speaking her mind, even if it meant delivering tough love. She believed in planning ahead, and true to her nature, she didn’t want a traditional funeral. Instead, she requested that her loved ones throw a party in her honor, sharing funny stories, popping a top, and wearing lipstick and red shoes to celebrate the extraordinary woman she was. Though we may not be ready for that party just yet, we will honor Delores’ wishes. We will celebrate her life, her spirit, and the joy she brought to everyone who knew her. Rest in peace, Delores Jean Burch Rush, and may your journey continue. Susie Mozolic of Bevis Funeral Home is assisting the family with their arrangements. (www.bevisfh.com or 850-385-2193)

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Delores Burch Rush

January 25, 1936 - September 16, 2024