Mary Jane (Southwick) Rush

It is with the utmost sadness that our family has lost a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, Mary Jane Rush, on October 25, 2023 at the age of 85. Mary Jane was born on June 14, 1938 to Rolland and Jeanette Southwick in Marshfield, Oregon. In the early years of her life, Mary Jane enjoyed spending time and learning from her older sister, Ethel.

As a young adult, Mary Jane met the love of her life, William “Bill” Rush. After marrying in 1962, they began to travel and explore the world, while beginning their teaching journeys. Mary Jane taught in Portland for her first year, and then completed a year in Yuma, Arizona, with the next two years in El Salvador, Chile. Their first born son, Chad, was born during their time in Chile. Soon after Chad’s birth, they came home to be closer to family. A couple of years later, a second son, Todd, completed their family. Mary Jane was a fabulous cook and baker; she learned from trying new recipes. Many meals were celebrated with her delicious meals and desserts.

Mary Jane and Bill committed to lifelong teaching careers in the North Bend District, retiring in 1994. Mary Jane loved to learn and was an amazing teacher. Many, many students have shared with her and her family that she was their favorite teacher. Mary Jane loved connecting with past students; knowing she made a difference meant the world to her.

After retiring, Mary Jane and Bill continued to travel with exploration to Europe and numerous camping trips across the country. Mary Jane loved being outdoors and camping with family and dear friends. Later in life she enjoyed reminiscing about their adventures.

Mary Jane enjoyed time with her family and friends. Picnics were one of the many ways she spent time with her granddaughters. They brought her immense joy. She always smiled so big and thoroughly loved life. She and Bill were happily married for 61 years.

Mary Jane is survived by her husband Bill; sons, Todd, and Chad and wife Tiffany; grandchildren, Aubrie Jane and Jessica and her husband Shane; and two great grandchildren, Izabel and Emma, along with many relatives and close friends, such as Lois Forrester. And a special thank you to Anna Carder for providing such good care in the last several months of her life.

Mary Jane was preceded in death by her parents, Rolland and Jeanette; and her sister, Ethel Rogers.

No services are planned at this time. Friends and family are encouraged to sign the online guestbook at www.coosbayareafunerals.com and www.theworldlink.com. Donations may be made in Mary Jane’s honor to the North Bend Schools Foundation, www.nbschoolfoundation.org/donate/. Arrangements are under the care of North Bend Chapel, 541-756-0440.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary Jane (Southwick) Rush, please visit our floral store.