Leland Wayne Rush, 70-year-old lifetime resident of Doniphan, MO, departed this life, December 24, 2024. He was born November 22, 1954, in Poplar Bluff, MO, to Edith (Milum) Rush and the late Joe Rush.
Wayne earned his master’s degree and spent his career teaching at Doniphan R-I High School where he impacted countless students. Outside of his teaching career, Wayne was a self-employed farmer who dedicated himself to establishing a beautiful homestead for his family. He was known throughout the area for his love and knowledge of John Deere, which started when he was a young boy. An avid outdoorsman, Wayne liked to fish in the local rivers, particularly Eleven Point. He also liked to venture to Colorado where he would explore the mountains on 4-wheelers. Wayne was a devout member of the Doniphan Church of Christ and served as a deacon for over 35 years.
Our “Deere” miracle man bravely battled prostate cancer since 2009, traveling to Mayo Clinic for many treatments. When he contracted Covid in January 2021, Wayne spent over 110 days in the hospital and was sent home on hospice. Through the power of prayer and with the help of his family and friends, he persevered against all odds to enjoy four more years on this earth doing God’s will and leading others to Christ.
On November 26, 1976, Wayne married Marilyn Mathis. She survives. His legacy also includes his children, Lori (Paul) Adell of Sikeston, MO, Lindsey (Ryan) Schlief of Dexter, MO, and Logan (Mackenzie) Rush of Clever, MO; and a sister, Carol (Dr. Les) Lamoureux of Branson. He was Papaw to Kadison, Kambry, and Kennon Adell, Rylin Jo, Rivers, and Ridge Schlief, Colby, Ella Kate, and Avery Rush. He also leaves behind his righthand man, nephew Phillip (Caitlin) Lamoureux as well as many other nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held at the Doniphan Church of Christ beginning at noon on Sunday, December 29, 2024, with the funeral service to follow at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be at Rush Farms. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in his name to Paragould Children’s Home, 5515 Walcott Road, Paragould, AR 72450.
Wayne’s legacy will endure through his proudest blessings, his children and grandchildren, who are following in his footsteps at Rush Farms.
