Derek Donald Rushing

October 21, 1968 - September 7, 2010

Derek Donald Scott Rushing

Suddenly on Sept. 7, 2010, of Mantua. Age 41. Beloved husband of Pamela A. nee Jones. Devoted father of Emily, Shannon, Christian and Brian Rushing and step-father of Drew and Matthew Hanke. Loving son of Val nee Morrison and Roy Coggins of CA. Dear brother of Heather Brown and Mona Wright. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Derek served in the Navy for 20 years. During that time, he fought in Gulf Storm, the Persian Gulf War and Desert Storm. He earned many medals and ribbons such as the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. He retired in June 2006 as a First Class Petty Officer MM1 and has worked at Temple Episcopal Hospital as the Facilities Supervisor for the past three years. He was also an avid video gamer and was well respected and loved throughout the City of Heroes community. He will be missed.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing Tuesday eve 6:00 – 8:00 pm at the EGIZI FUNERAL HOME, 119 Ganttown Rd., Washington Twp. Funeral Service 8:00 pm at the funeral home. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Derek’s memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, 7020 AC Skinner Pkwy., Suite 100, Jacksonville, FL 32256.

“A Life Well Lived Is Worth Remembering.”

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Derek Donald Scott Rushing Suddenly on Sept. 7, 2010, of Mantua. Age 41. Beloved husband of Pamela A. nee Jones. Devoted father of Emily, Shannon, Christian and Brian Rushing and step-father of Drew and Matthew Hanke. Loving son of Val nee Morrison and Roy Coggins of CA. Dear brother of Heather Brown and Mona Wright.Continue Reading

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He was my shipmate rest in peace

I had the honor of working with Derek's wife Pam. And I met Derek at our employer's Year End Party. Although I had only met Derek in person once, I had heard a thousand stories about him from Pam. Mostly funny stories about those video games they would always play. My impression of Derek was that he was a pretty cool and funny guy. I was glad to know that Pam had a wonderful husband by her side. My deepest sympathy goes out to the family of Mr. Derek Rushing...*I Salute You*

I'm so sorry and my sincerest condolences go out to the family of my cousin Derek. Derek and I share the same middle name and are pretty close in age. One of my favorite memories of him is captured in an old picture that my Mom and Dad keep at the house. I was just a baby at the time but I remember that day very clearly somehow. I was so happy to meet my cousins for the first time that day. It was like having a big sister and brother. That day seems like just yesterday. I know that Derek's family loved him very much and are very proud of him and all of his accomplishments and his country thanks him for the years of service he gave. He will truly be missed by everyone. Rest in Peace cousin Derek. Your cousin, Sean

Derek was a funny guy and always talked lovely things about his wife and children. Whenever he came to HR, he always had something funny to share with us; he was all smile. I am so glad I had the opportunity to work with him -Maria. Working with Derek at TUHS Episcopal Campus was a fun experience eventhough he was my Supervisor, our relationship at work was more like two co-workers. I remember one day after a holiday, I asked Derek how was his holiday and he replied "I went out with my wife to dinner and to the movies, and I had the most wonderful quite time". He was such a hard working family man. I will surely miss you soldier, I salute you. International Union of Operating Engineers - Miguel

Words can't convey how many times I typed "haha" in response to something Derek said. He managed to bring a quick wit to life's doldrums and a smile to my face. Your humor and spirit will live on forever. Thank you for making all our lives full of laughter and joy. @Hobo

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Even though we never met in person, I will miss Derek as a good friend. I still remember the first time we met in game. I ran a lowbie through Skyway to help him find a glowie in a horrid Orangebagel map. We have played together more times than I can count and I couldn't have asked for a better teammate. A great person, a great leader, and a great friend. We are all feeling this loss.

"What the heart has once known, it shall never forget." ~Author unknown

your family will be in my prayers

Rest in Peace my Battleship Brother....

I was a shipmate of Derek's back on USS Wisconsin. I worked with him quite a bit and considered him a friend. I really wish I had kept touch after leaving USS Wisconsin. My condolences to his family. He was a solid shipmate, someone you could always count on.

Goodbye Derek. You were a good friend even though we only met in the virtual world of the City of Heroes. My condolences to Pam, your children and step-children and relatives. May memories of him never dim. @Bombur

I served on the U.S.S Wisconsin BB-64 from 87-90, i do not remember Derek. My thoughts and prayers goes out to his family. God Speed & Semper Fi!!!!

Rest in Peace my Battleship Brother....

i served with petty officer rushing aboard uss wisconsin A-gang he will be missed a great shipmate... R.I.P.

I served with him during the desert sheild and desert storm. he was a great guy and a good friend. He surly will be missed.

Another shipmate gone to power the engines in Davy Jones Locker, we all know he will be missed. Fair Winds and Following Seas!

Derek you were like my 2nd brother. I will miss you so much. I cant even play petville anymore since that was our game together on Facebook we shared so much. I cant delete your "key" requests either. Its like the last thing I have from you. You are forever with me. I LOVE YOU BROTHER. See you again soon.

I've known Derek for nearly 35 years, since the day our mother brought me home from the hospital. My brother was older than me, but he still let me hang out, sometimes taking me to the movies & stuff. Not many big brothers are so generous with their time and money. But he was. Derek had a big & cheesy smile, complete with dimples. With his great sense of humor, he flashed that smile often. If you said or did something outrageous, he'd arch his eyebrow, widen his eyes, and give "the look." I always knew that I loved my brother, but I had no idea just how deep a love that siblings share. I would give anything to hear Derek say, "love ya little sis" just one more time. My young son, who shared my brother's middle name, will grow up hearing about the uncle who honorably served his country for 20 years. The uncle who he, unfortunately, never met. I believe that Derek is in Heaven with our Grandparents. But I also know that he will live forever in my heart. Always.

Emily, Tyler, Shannon and Brian, So sorry for your loss and heartache. Your Dad will be missed by you, but keep your memories close and special to your hearts. share your memories with each other and don't be afraid to laugh and talk about him. A memory can bring a person closer to you when you think you have forgotten them. Pam, Drew, Matt, Valerie, Roy, Mona and Heather, I meet Derek through Donna when she and I were in nursing school so I never meet any of you but I will be praying for you all in your time of grief. Children, step-fathers and siblings are all special and they will always be missed. My condolences to you. God Bless You.

When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight. @Caiged

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I'll never forget that great big grin when Derek returned on the Wisconsin from Gulf War 1 and saw the twins for the first time. Our local TV station carried it and I cherished the tape I made of that until Katrina washed it away. The look on his face was priceless. Erin, Shannon, Tyler and Brian you were so blessed to have a Father who loved you and cherished you so much. I lost my father very young but always said I would rather have had the father I had for a short time than any other for years and years. You are blessed to have had a father like that too. I love you all. Aunt Pat

His Morals were strong, His life was strong, and he will be strong in our hearts.

I only knew Derek through the online gaming group that we belonged to, but it was a privilege. His good humour and no nonsense style always shone through. He will be missed.

When my Dad died 3 years ago a friend told me "It doesn't get any better, but it does get easier". I don't remember teaming a lot with Sailor, probably because teaming with him was effortless.

A good hero will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you.

Derek, I only knew you on line, but you were always upbeat and ready both to help and have fun. You will be missed by all who love you. @Jack Dark

Pam, Derek will be so missed. I am so very sorry for your loss. I know how much Derek loved you, that is why he called you "DearHeart", because you will alway be dear to his heart. Derek brought the life and love back into your life.. Derek brought that smile back on your face that I will always remember seeing when we were young. When I would see you and Derek together you could see the love that you to shared with each other. Please know that Derek is always near you and watching over you...you meant so much to him...Love you and God Bless..

Derek, you were a true hero. You're service is to be commended, but what makes you a hero is your spirit of community, support for friends even those you hadn't met, yet and your will to push those around you to be their very best. I will miss you, deeply. Pam, there are no words, but we stand beside you, lean on us when you need to. @Artillery MKV

we came a long way between Pasagoula and USS Seattle were we served together you were my friend in both places espically on the ship after i got sick and you would be my support overseas. You will be missed buddie just wished i could of keep in touch more than i did. Pam never got a chance to meet you but mine and sue's prayers go out to you and the kids. Emily, Shannon, Christian and Brian yall probably dont remmember us but me and sue were pretty good friends with you dad and i know he is looking down on yall.

I had the pleaseure of meeting Derek through Pam, his loving wife. It was easy to see how much they loved each other everytime I saw them together. Pam told me so many great stories about Derek, I felt like I knew him better everyday. He had a great sense of humor and smile. Thank you for crossing my path, and yes the help with football... I will think of you every time I pick! Pam, I am here. My heart can't begin to know what you feel right now. Remember the smiles, the laughs and the love.

we are very sorry to hear about Derek He is in our prayers and also the kids.

Pam, As your friend, I loved to see how happy Derek made you. He was such a good guy. He will be missed. My thoughts are with you and the kids. Johanna

My deepest sympathy to you Roy sailor! and Val on the loss of your son Derek. I pray that in time the memories of him as a son, a husband, and father, a man of character who served his country will fill your hearts with pride and joy, providing some comfort in the days to come. Although Derek's life may not have had the longevity you hoped for, it was a full life, and his legacy will live with his children, and all who loved him!

You will be missed greatly by your four children. Your leaving this world much too early leaves a great void in their lives, but you have left behind four great legacies. Thank you for helping me bring into this world the four most precious gifts in our lives. Our children loved you much and have wonderful memories to share with their future children. May god give us all the strength to handle your passing. God Bless, Donna Rushing

Uncle Derek was a great man. I am so sorry to see that his time was cut short. I know he will be missed by all his family and friends. My prayers and condolences are with his family. We love you and you will be missed. Erin, Jacob and Arabella

My Love, You made me laugh - mostly when you weren't trying! You made me feel so special and so loved. I would look forward to coming home after work for one of your gigantic bear hugs. I always felt so safe and secure in your arms. I loved playing online with you and browsing at the best store on Earth! I am so fortunate that I was able to share part of your life with you. I just wish we could have had more time. There were so many things we still wanted to do together. I will miss you with all of my heart and I know you will be watching over me. I love you Babe.

Emily, Shannon, Tyler and Brian, I know how hard this is for all of you. I am thinking about you and praying for you all. Always remember to be there for each other. Love one another and be understanding of each others own grieving process. In San Diego, I remember going roller skating with you guys and bowling and Justin's birthday party in the backyard with your Dad helping out. Your Dad was so proud of you kids and loved you kids so much. Never forget that. When things get tough, think of a good memory with your Dad and smile. He will be smiling in Heaven at the same time. Miss You Kids! Kimberly

I only knew him via RO but he was genuine and remarkable even through the filter of a text chat box. Best wishes to his family, stay strong in this time of grief. - Ray @Miss Promethium

Daddy There is so much i want to say. I wish everyone could have gotten to know you the way we did. Life is hard and you get back what you put in it, but you never gave up. When so many are scared to do things and live up to their potential, you were leading the way and showing us how to accomplish our dreams. You were a great father, you were a big kid, and you will be forever missed. love Emily xoxo

Tyler, Brian, Emo and Shannon, My heart is breaking for each of you on the loss of your daddy. He was just too young to pass away and I can comprehend how much you must be hurting at this time. Even though Derek moved on in life I still considered him my little brother because he has always been a huge part of my life when your parents married. Ms Pam I never had the pleasure of meeting you, but the kids have always spoken highly of you throughout the years. Thank you for bringing happiness to Derek. That made us all very happy. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I am so sorry to hear about Derek. My heart, prayers and thoughts go out his family. I met him in Pascagoula Ms when he was stationed about the USS Wisconsin. He was a good friend I am glad that I met him. I pray that during this time God will be your comfort, strength and peace.

Emily, Tyler, Shannon, & Brian, God feels your grief and will carry you thru this time. Only He can wipe away the tears. Thinking and praying for you all daily. With love.

Derek was a warm and helpful man. He loved to share his enthusiasm for his Navy service, his pride in his children, and his love for his wife - though not in that order. Although I also only met Derek through a game, his willingness to talk about life and the attitude needed to handle it's adversities, often helped my perspective when I was frustrated. I regret your all-too-early loss.

Ohmi here. I am very sorry to lose him.

I've known Derek for over three years only as Sailor Rush in City of Heroes. I always looked forward to playing with him and Pam. He had a great sense of humor and you could tell how much he loved Pam and his family. It has been my honor to have been able to get to know and play with Derek/Sailor Rush. My thoughts go out to Derek's family and friends. Simcha Gralla aka CMOT Dibbler

I have written this before for Derek and it still holds true. You will be missed. We spend alot of waking hours in this world doing hard things and real things. We spend it working and taking care of family and doing the best we can with what we have. An escape from all that is in the games and hobbies we take up I knew you from a fantasy world where we fought crime and had fun. And in a world where we strive to be something different I got to know somebody who was just as honest and good in real life as the hero he played on a computer screen. Goodbye good Sailor, there were few as good and even fewer better. Kendrick -- @Deaconfrost

It was not only a pleasure but an honor to work with Derek and be on his team at TUHS. He was a great asset to Episcopal Hospital management. He will be greatly missed by all. Stan Moleski

i love you!

It was a shock to learn of Derek's passing. I only knew him through COH, but even through that limited contact I could tell he was a special person. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. Sean aka TheWeaver and Michelle Fitts

"Honor, Courage, Commitment." RIP Derek.

I have had the fortune of knowing Derek since our days in high school at John F. Kennedy high in La Palma California. Derek was a good man and wonderful friend. I will miss him very much. Rest in peace my friend.

Derek was a sweet heart. I will miss him wonderful greetings whenever he entered the office. He had a wonderful working relationship with everyone here at work. He will definitely be irreplaceable.

Derek will be sadly missed. I came to know Derek when I hired him to be the Maintenance Supervisor for the Temple Episcopal Campus. Derek was a hard working individual and dedicated to his job. He was a Loving & Caring Husband and Father who talked about his wife and children all the time. His excitement when he talked about Gaming would light up a room. He had a heart of Gold and a hearty laugh that would make you smile on your worst day. I will miss Derek dearly as a "Great Friend"! My Condolences to his wife Pamela, his children, parents, family and friends.

On behalf of the entire Temple Health System Transport Team, please accept my condolences. We will keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers. It was a pleasure knowing and working with Derek over the past few years; he will be missed.

My prayers and sympathy go out to Derek's wife, children, parents, and sisters. Derek grew up to be a wonderful respectful young man. We will always remember him as a little fun-loving playful boy who grew up to be an honorable Navy man. Our family will always remember him in our hearts. With Deepest Sympathy, Mrs. Lorrie Morrison Aunt Lorrie

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Derek was a good guy and will be greatly missed.

You will be miss by all your family and friends. The Salior Prayer: The Lord is my pilot, I shall not go adrift; He lighteth my passage across dark channels; He steereth me through the deep waters, He keepeth my log. He guideth me by the evening star for my safety's sake. Yea, though I sail mid the thunders and tempest of life, I shall fear no peril for Thou art with me. The vastness of thy sea upholds me. Surely fair winds and safe harbors shall be found all the days of my life; And I shall moor, fast, and secure, forever Amen.

Derek, You were a good man and passed far too quickly. Even though I was only able to know you via CoH, I've always valued your humor and insight along with your fearlessness as Sailor Rush when confronted by a huge room full of baddies that desperately needed a beatdown. Pam, my condolences to you and all the loved ones that you and Derek share. He will be missed. -Steve aka Posi Chimp @Reborn Posi

Son, as you know due to medical reasons I was not able to travel to attend your service. Derek, a father could not love or be more proud of having a son like you. There will be a void in my heart from your passing that will never be replaced. Son, I will miss you and I love you and I will see you somewhere down the road. Love, Dad

I only know you guys from in-game but RO is a family of sorts. I share the loss.

An Army salute to one of the finest Navy men I ever had the honor to know. Ceejer

From the first time we met in Pascagoula, to the last time we cooked out in New Jersey, Derek was a true friend through the ups and downs. He was that one person that would bring a smile to your face when you needed it most. His sense of humor, quick wit, and intelligence will be missed. From celebrating Mardi Gras, port calls in Various cities and countries together, and even as we both grew older not growing up I can say that I was truly blessed to have had Derek in my life. A bit of Him will live on with each and every person that knew him. Thank You for being my friend Derek.

Derek was always a great sounding board for me. Whenever I wanted to fly off the handle over something in RO I'd message or chat him first because I know my tendency to over react. His feedback was always important, and his company and yours, Pam even more so. Our community has lost much with his passing, and you even more than the rest of us.

Your were my brother and I loved you. I will miss you Derek. All My Love Mona

Derek will be missed greatly by those who only knew him through a game. His quality shone through into the online world. We played together for years and it was clear that he was a good man with a wonderful family and a great sense of humor. We won't be the same without him. Rest in peace, hero. Stacie/Alty

As I recall Derek from when he was a young boy I'm always struck by his impish smile. Derek always seemed to be laughing and smiling. That smiling young boy grew up to serve and honor his country well. That smiling young boy also grew to become a beloved husband and father. Derek was too young to pass so suddently. He'd only just begun to live and enjoy life. My nephew's impish smile will always be in my memories. I'll miss you Derek.

Derek and I met in 2003 when I began dating his sister Heather. He was going through a rough time more heartache ahead of him. Derek loved his children, sisters, parents, and the Navy. Thankfully, he found the love of his life in Pam. He was so clearly in love with her. Having great love in your life allows men to overcome beastly strife life sometimes visits upon us. I’m so happy to know that Derek found the happiness he deserved. Pam is the best thing that happened to Derek. I know because he told me on every occasion he could. Over a couple of beers we solved most of humanity’s problems, yet I never heard him complain about people in his past that hurt him, yet he could have. He was too big a man for that. When Derek got past the ugly, beastly strife and married Pam, it was great! The night Derek, Pam, Heather and I spent on the Vegas Strip was one I’ll always cherish. I miss that guy, he was one in a million. Thank God Derek was able to be happy at the end of his life!

With heart felt sadness I give my since sympathy to a loving family. I have known all of you many years and know the loss of Derek is great. God Bless all of you. In my prayers I will keep all of you.

Pam, Drew & Matt Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Love, Chris, Gera & Ed

Derek, I'm going to miss you, man. We had some good times together over the past few years, even if it was only in person that once. It was an honor to have known you, and to have been a small part of your life. -- Joshua @Mysterious J

Derek was a good man. A fellow service member. I would throw some Navy jokes at him, and he tossed a few Army ones at me. I wish I knew him better, and his being around will be missed. It is always sad to see the good ones leave too soon in this world. But the lives he has touched are better for it. Go in peace Derek Rushing.

My precious son, you have no idea how much my heart is crying for you. You were a special person who touched many people in many different ways. There will not be a day that goes by for the rest of my life that I will not be missing you. From the day I first brought you into this world 41+ years ago you have brightened my days. I'm so happy you found Pam, the great love of your life. It was a joy to share your wedding day with her on May 19th 2006. There was so much love being shared that day. It was a wonderful weekend. The story that was Derek ended too soon! I'm comforted a small bit knowing that your Grandma & Grandpa Morrison are also in Heaven and looking after you. I will always love you, my son.... Mom

Pam, We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Drew, Matt and all of your family. Love, Jill, Mike, Sean and Ian Gorman

I am really sorry for your loss. Derek was a great guy and Brother-in-Law. I will miss him. Your family will be in my prayers. Michael A. Jackson

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.