James Monroe Rush Jr.

James "Jim" Monroe Rush, Jr., age 82, passed away peacefully at home on March 15, 2025, after a long battle with Lewy Body Dementia. He was a loving husband, father, "Daddy Jim," uncle, and friend, and he will be missed by all. Jim graduated from Bellaire High School in 1961 and from the University of Houston in 1967. He then joined the U.S. Air Force, serving as an officer and T-38 pilot instructor from 1968 to 1972, where he discovered his lifelong passion for flying. After his service in the Air Force, Jim joined Delta Airlines in 1972 and flew for 30 years, eventually rising to the rank of Captain before his retirement in 2002.
Jim was known for his friendly demeanor, and he didn't know a stranger. He loved to laugh, tell jokes, and share his gregarious personality with those around him. His easygoing nature and readiness for adventure made his presence cherished by family and friends. He was a devoted caretaker and problem-solver, generous with his time and resources. Jim was actively involved in mission trips and volunteered at his church, where he served as a deacon. His interests included playing golf, traveling the world, riding Harleys, enjoying BBQ, two-stepping, drinking Starbucks coffee, and watching movies. Most importantly, he loved sharing all these experiences with his loved ones.
He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Debby Rush, and his daughters Kerri Hove (husband, Eric) and Jessica Dugan (husband, Dwight), and grandchildren Riley, Cole, and Jack Hove, and Harriet and Clementine Dugan. He is also survived by his stepchildren Danny Paschall (partner, Lindsay) and Brooke Duke (husband, Charlie), stepdaughter-in-law Christina Paschall, and grandchildren Morgan Paschall, Liam, Owen, Cora, and Eliza Duke, and Gavin and Olivia Paschall. Jim was proceeded in death by his son Matthew James Rush and stepson Casey Paschall, his parents Rosalie and James Rush, and brother Donald Rush.
A memorial service will be held on March 29, 2025, at 11am at Second Baptist Church Kingwood. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association www.lbda.org.