Rusty was predeceased by his parents, William Odus and Mary Dessie Morris. Siblings who were also predeceased were, Eugene, Charles Thomas, Ruth, William Edward, Joseph Madeline, Mary Trevla, Richard Rudolph, John Commodore, Francis Dennis (Red), MaeElla,and Joseph Robert. Left to cherish his memory, is his loving wife of 63 years, Alice; and children, Janie (Johnny), Karyn (Bob), Jimmy, Kenny, Judy (George) and Kim (Patrick); grandchildren are Jason, Nick, Kris, Patrick, Kevin, Tina, April, Kyle, Brad and Alyssa and 11 great grandchildren. Rusty is survived by his beloved brother Harold Otis and numerous nieces and nephews.
Rusty came from loving and humble beginnings in Whitesville, KY. He worked in the tobacco fields with his family. He married the love of his life on September 23, 1958. Rusty enjoyed spending time with his family. He took them camping, fishing, to the beach (anything outdoors). Rusty always loved sports and encouraged all of his children to play baseball, softball, volleyball and basketball. He was very competitive and looked forward to “pick up” games whenever possible. He was extremely proud of all of his children and their personal accomplishments.
Rusty had a 22 year career in the US Navy, retiring as Senior Chief in 1978. After retiring from the Navy, Rusty joined the US Postal Service as a letter carrier, retiring after 21 years.
Once retired, Rusty and Alice built their dream home in Gloucester, VA. Rusty took much pride in his beautiful yard and vegetable garden. His tomatoes were his pride and joy. During retirement Rusty and Alice loved to travel. Some of their favorite places were Yellowstone, Yosemite, Alaska, Zion, Bryce, Sedona, Arches, Monument Valley and Lake Powell. More than anything, Rusty enjoyed spending time with his family. He loved sitting around the kitchen table playing cards and dominoes or just having a conversation.
Services for Rusty will be private, but livestreamed through Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Garden's Facebook page at 10:00 am on Tuesday, January 4, 2022. Please visit www.WoodlawnNorfolk.com to leave a message of condolence for the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Catholic Family Charities of Eastern Virginia, 5361 Virginia Beach Blvd, Suite A, Virginia Beach, VA 23462.
