Ernest "Bud" Rushing, Jr.

Ernest Wade “Bud” Rushing Jr., 86, of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026, at Novant Health Kernersville Medical Center. Bud was born on August 29, 1939, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina to the late Ernest Wade Rushing Sr. and Fanny Katherine Rushing. He was a lifelong resident of the Winston-Salem area, where he built a life defined by hard work, love, and deep devotion to his family. Bud spent his career as a highly skilled special machines mechanic and retired from Johnson Controls. He took great pride in his work and was respected for his skill, reliability, and dedication. In retirement, Bud embraced what he fondly referred to as his role as a “professional retiree,” enjoying the freedom to spend his days doing the things he loved most. Bud was known not only for his kindness, but for his unmistakable charm and charisma. He had a natural ability to connect with people and made friends everywhere he went. His warm smile, easygoing nature, and sense of humor made others feel comfortable in his presence. He carried himself with quiet confidence and a genuine sincerity that drew people to him. He could brighten a room without trying, and those who knew him will always remember how special he made people feel. Above all else, Bud was a family man. He treasured time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and found his greatest happiness in family gatherings, holidays, and trips together. Whether it was a simple visit, a shared meal, or time spent on vacation, those moments meant everything to him. He was a devoted and loving father, a proud grandfather, and a cherished great-grandfather. He never hesitated to offer his time, his support, or his heart. He would do anything for anyone, especially those he loved. Bud found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He loved playing golf, fishing, hunting, reading, and going to the movies. He was especially passionate about playing pool and proudly served as captain of his 8-ball team, where he enjoyed both the competition and the friendships he built along the way. Bud loved watching good westerns and appreciated the storytelling and characters that reminded him of simpler times. Whether sharing stories, enjoying quiet moments, or simply being surrounded by family, Bud appreciated every moment life gave him. Those who knew Bud will remember him as one of the sweetest, most genuine people they had ever met. He lived with humility, strength, and generosity. His presence brought comfort, his personality brought joy, and his love left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He is survived by his loving children, Scott David Rushing (Julie) of Clemmons, NC; Jason Todd Collins of Winston-Salem, NC; Darren Keith Smith (April) of Winston-Salem, NC; and Jody Wade Rushing (Ritchie Parrish) of Winston-Salem, NC; his brother, Rodger Rushing, of Germanton, NC; his beloved sister at heart, Judy Maxey Rutledge (James), of Pfafftown, NC; Carole Grubbs of Walnut Cove, NC, who he loved as a daughter, and her children, Brittany and Brianna, who were also very dear to him; his cherished grandchildren, Nikki, Katie, Stephanie, Amanda, Kevin, Alex, Lindsay, Ian, Bailey, Evan, Amber, Jeremy, Patrick, Collin, Kendall, and Diana; his eleven beloved great-grandchildren; and his loyal dog, Benji, his constant companion and faithful friend. He was preceded in death by his beloved children, Susan Renee Rushing Whittington of King, NC and Steven Wade Rushing of Cary, NC; and by his parents, Ernest Wade Rushing Sr. and Fanny Katherine Rushing. Bud’s legacy is one of love, strength, kindness, and unforgettable presence. He built a family that will continue to honor his memory and carry forward the values he lived every day. Though he is no longer with us, his charm, his laughter, and his love will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. A service to celebrate Bud’s life will be held at Hayworth-Miller Rural Hall Chapel on Saturday, February 28, at 2:00 p.m. Pastor Clayton Smith will officiate. The family will receive friends at the funeral home immediately following the service until 4:00 p.m. Bud will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.