Geneva Marie Rush

Geneva Marie Rush Geneva Marie Rush, affectionately known as Neva, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025, at 76 years of age. Born on September 21, 1949, in Independence, Missouri, she lived a life filled with love, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family and faith. 

Neva’s strong work ethic and caring spirit were evident throughout her life. She began working at Farmer’s Insurance right after high school, later working at a sewing company and the Lake-n-Dale gas station. Her greatest joy, however, was found in childcare. She lovingly cared for countless children in multiple daycares over the years, retiring from Shining Stars Daycare in 2020, though she continued to substitute because caring for little ones brought her such purpose and happiness. 

A lifelong member of the Community of Christ Church, Neva’s faith was a guiding light in her life, reflected in her actions and commitment to her community. Her interests were as varied as they were heartfelt; she found joy in the delicate beauty of butterflies and the serenity of angels. These symbols of transformation and protection brought her comfort, and she lovingly surrounded herself with them in her home. Neva treasured time spent with her family—whether camping, baking, hosting joyous family gatherings, or reminiscing about youthful days at the lake. 

To her grandchildren and great-granddaughter, she was “Meme”—the one who showed up for every softball game, school event, and celebration. She loved watching westerns and Hallmark movies, playing cards around the table, and going out to eat or to the dinner theater with her cousins. Whenever someone stopped by, it made her day; she loved her people deeply and without hesitation. She found peace in weekend camping trips in her camper, where she could rest and recharge.

Neva devoted more than 20 years to lovingly caring for her parents, Bill and Ina, who lived with her in her home as their health needs changed over time. She was also the humble, faithful organizer of every Bledsoe family gathering and Shields family reunion—doing the behind-the-scenes work to keep everyone connected, even if she never sought recognition. She kept up with every family update and was the one you called if you wanted to know how someone was doing. She also served as a dedicated Girl Scout leader, sharing her patience, creativity, and quiet leadership with younger generations. 

Neva is survived by her loving children, David Rush, Michael Rush, and Kelli Kuehn; her grandchildren Stephanie (Marcus) Carroll, Joshua Kuehn, and Kailyn Rush; and her great-granddaughter Olivia Carroll. She is also survived by her siblings David (Vicki), Warren (Stacey), Victor (Colleen), and Lauretta (Don). She is reunited in heaven with her parents, Bill and Ina Bledsoe; her beloved husband, Rodney; and nephews Lynn and Matthew. Family and friends are invited to celebrate her life on Saturday, November 8, from 12–3 p.m. at the Community of Christ Church, 15520 S. Ridgeview Rd., Olathe, Kansas. 

Her life was a quiet and steady offering of love—faithful in family, humble in service, generous in heart—and her legacy will continue in the lives she touched and the family she so dearly held together.