In Loving Memory of L.V. “Junior” Rush
Virgil Lavan “Junior” Rush, born January 13, 1943, in Caruthersville, Missouri, to Peter and Lucille Rush, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2025. He was the seventh of nine children and was affectionately known by family and friends as “Junior.”
Junior was a man of quiet strength, always ready to listen and offer thoughtful advice. He was never one to complain but instead focused on finding the best solutions for any situation, fostering resolution and progress. His life’s mission was rooted in his unwavering belief in quality, unity, and the pursuit of justice for all people. Living through the turbulent times of Jim Crow and the Civil Rights Movement, Junior fought for the equal rights of his people with a passion that inspired all who knew him.
Junior married the love of his life, Robbie Weems Rush, and together they raised two sons, Virgil Rush and Roderick Rush. He was a proud grandfather to his beloved grandson, Elijah Rush.
Junior served his country with honor in the United States Air Force, embodying the values of discipline, service, and commitment to unity. He believed that true progress required thinking outside the box, a principle that he applied not only in his military service but throughout his personal and professional life.
A proud graduate of Washington High School in Caruthersville, Missouri, Junior spent over 30 years of his career at Northwest Airlines, where he served as station manager, making lasting contributions to the aviation industry. His hard work, dedication, and leadership earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers alike.
He was a faithful member of Ward Chapel in Memphis Tennessee, where he taught Sunday school, served as a trustee and built the church’s online website, he had a great love for his church and love for Christ.
Junior was deeply loved by his family and friends and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and his tireless commitment to making the world a better place. He is survived by his loving wife, Robbie Weems Rush, sons Virgil (Suwazia) and Roderick Rush, grandson Elijah Rush. He also survived by three siblings Helen Jean Russell, Tommie Rush, and Gloria Faye Rush, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Junior was preceded in death by his parents Peter & Lucille Rush, brothers Lavelle, Roy, Roscoe & Peter Rush Jr and sister Arbie Jean Sims. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.