Luella Jean Rust

Luella "Lu" Jean Rust
St. Louis, MO - Luella Jean (Hunt) Rust, 76, of Bethalto, IL, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on March 29, 1948, in Illinois, Luella was the cherished daughter of Dale and Gladys (Green) Hunt. On July 18, 1982, she married her perfect match, Dale Rust, in Edwardsville, IL. Together, they shared over forty wonderful years of love, laughter, and countless adventures.
Luella was a proud graduate of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where she earned her master's degree in Speech Language Pathology. She went on to spend over 30 years as a Speech Therapist in the Bunker Hill School District, helping children find their voices and build confidence. Her dedication left an indelible mark on the lives of many students, colleagues, and families.
A woman of many passions, Luella had a green thumb and could often be found tending to her beautiful garden or nurturing the plants in her sunroom. She loved to travel, especially with Dale and sometimes with her grandchildren, always eager to explore new places and create memories. An avid reader, she treasured her book club at the Bethalto Public Library, where lively discussions and good company were always on the agenda. And when she was not in her garden or with a book, Luella filled her home with music, delighting in playing her piano.
Luella leaves behind her loving husband, Dale; her son, Greg Schmidt, and his wife, Heather; her grandchildren, Hannah and Geoffrey Schmidt, who were the lights of her life, her step-daughter, Rhonda (Dr. Rodney) Greeling, her step-sons, Roger (Laura) Rust, Dr. Merle (Lisa) Rust, and Jason (Mira) Rust, six step-grandchildren, and sister-in-law Marilyn Bertels. She is also survived by many cousins and dear friends, each of whom held a special place in her heart.
She is reunited in peace with her parents, Dale and Gladys Hunt, her brother, Bob Hunt, and her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Richard (Laura) Rust, Albert (Jean) Rust, Edward (Lena) Rust, Corleen (Don) Heuer, and Audrey (Victor) Lesemann.
In keeping with Luella's wishes, she was cremated, and no formal services will be held. Instead, her family will host a Celebration of Life at a later date, where stories, laughter, and love will honor the incredible woman she was.
In memory of Luella, the family suggests donations to the Bethalto Public Library or a charity of your choice. Her legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.