Carol R. Jelus

Carol Rush Jelus of Newtown, PA passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on July 5, 2025. She was 82. She was the daughter to the late Alvera and William Rush and loving sister to William Robert Rush(Maryann).
Carol was born in Parkville, Maryland where she grew up and enjoyed dance, piano, singing, and baton twirling. She graduated from Parkville High School in 1960 and was a three sport varsity athlete with achievements in field hockey, basketball and softball. Carol attended the University of Maryland for almost two years, where she met the love of her life and devoted husband of 60 years, Paul William Jelus in their college dining hall. From that moment on, Carol and Paul were inseparable and supported each other with devotion throughout their lives.
Carol worked many jobs including physical education teacher, occupational therapist, and recreation director while Paul was in dental school. After Paul's graduation, Carol and Paul moved to Minot, North Dakota where Paul served as a dentist in the United States Air Force. In 1969, they returned to Bucks County, Pennsylvania, which became their lifelong home. Once in Bucks County, Carol served on the Welcome Wagon of Bucks County, Northampton Township Park & Recreation Board, and the Northampton Township Board of Supervisors. Carol was instrumental in developing the growing community by providing places and experiences for families to enjoy.
Carol always loved a "project" and had an exceptional vision for renovating commercial and residential buildings. Carol was often seen at the kitchen table with her ¼ - scale ruler and tissue paper, revising plans for functionality and flair. She loved to watch HGTV, especially Chip and Jo, for design ideas. Carol always saw the big picture and her strong will enabled her to achieve many successes throughout her life.
Most importantly, Carol was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Affectionately known as "BG" -a name that began when her oldest grandchild was learning to talk- Carol proudly declared that it stood for "Best Grandmother," a title she wore with love and joy. Carol loved to play games and spend time with her family. Carol also loved watching sports and always had her favorite athletes to cheer for-Buddy Ryan, Tom Brady, Jordan Spieth, Patrick Mahomes, and Caitlin Clark were among them, no matter which team they played on.
Carol never missed a big family moment, and loved celebrating every occasion. She was known for organizing surprise parties and family trips, and she took great joy in giving thoughtful special gifts to the people she loved. Carol deeply enjoyed spending time at her homes in Stone Harbor, NJ and La Quinta, CA where she created countless memories with family and friends over the years. She especially treasured visits from her children and grandchildren, particularly during her and Paul's retirement years.
A loyal and supportive friend, Carol stayed closely connected by regularly texting and staying in touch with her many cherished friends. She will hold a special place in her heart for her oldest and dearest friends Mary Ann, Andrea, Shirley, Nancy, and Gay.
Carol is survived by her beloved husband Dr. Paul William Jelus of 60 years, her loving daughter and son, Julianne Jelus Schluchterer (Jeffrey); and Jeffrey Paul Jelus (Shelly); her six cherished grandchildren- Madison, Hailey, Paige, and Brooke Schluchterer, and Jake and Luke Jelus. She is also survived by her brother William Robert Rush(Maryann), her nieces and nephews, extended family members and lifelong friends.
Paul and his family would like to thank Pickering Manor and Serenity Hospice PA for their kind and compassionate care during their time with them.
Family and friends are warmly invited to a celebration of Carol's life on Friday July 11, 2025 at the Joseph A. Fluehr III Funeral Home 800 Newtown- Richboro Road (at Holland Rd.) Richboro, PA 18954. Visitation will begin at 10:00am followed by a memorial service at 11:00am. A luncheon will immediately follow the memorial service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Carol's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.(stjude.org/donate).