Paul Michael Rushing

Paul Michael Rushing of Wingate, NC passed away June 12, 2017 in Monroe, NC at the age of 68. Mike was born in Ypsilanti, MI January 5, 1949 to Paul Jones Rushing and Stephanie Marie Laurich Rushing, the youngest of five children. The Rushings are long time citizens of Union and Anson Counties, the first in their line having emigrated from England in the 1700's.

Mike graduated from Piedmont High School in 1967 and then joined the US Marine Corps. After an honorable discharge, Mike joined his father in the Rushing Agency which dealt in home construction and real estate sales. After their father's retirement, Mike and his late sister, Carol Rushing Gaye, joined in business ventures in various real estate projects primarily in Union County. He also had several companies that dealt with housing rentals, remodeling and home construction. Mike was well known and respected for his craftsmanship, hard work, honest and fair pricing and always honoring his given word.

There were many things that brought joy and satisfaction to Mike. They were his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, his Marine Brothers, his enormous and bountiful vegetable garden which he grew so he could share it with others, cooking and baking, helping raise money for children suffering from cancer, and his extended family. Mike was a self taught guitar and banjo player and loved to play country music. He also created beautiful welded metal sculptures. Most of all, his heart belonged to his two children, Breann and Brent. Mike lost the love of his life nine years ago when his wife, Tonnie Myers Rushing, passed away. He is survived by his children, Breann and Brent. He is also survived by three siblings: sister, Lt Colonel Barbara R. Burgess, US Army Medical Corp. Ret., Washington, DC; sister, Sandra R. Mellow (Ron) of Orlando, FL; brother, Randall Rushing (Cathy) of Macclenny, Fl. In addition, Mike is survived by many nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews, cousins and loving friends.

Mike will be remembered as a kind, honest and decent man who cherished his family and friends. He will be greatly missed by many.

Memorial Donations/Contributions may be made to: Home Town Heroes and/or American Legion Post #440 (New Salem); please make contributions online or checks may be dropped off at Iron Horse Motorcycles.

The family will receive friends Monday evening, June 26, 2017 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at McEwen Funeral Home of Monroe. A Memorial Service will be Tuesday, June 27, 2017 at 11:00am in McEwen’s Colonial Chapel.

Online condolences may be offered at www.mcewenmonroechapel.com.

McEwen Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Rushing.