Born on March 28, 1957 at Lee Memorial Hospital; Merrell Christine Rushworth was the first-born daughter of Jack and Milbrey Rushworth.
Jack and Milbrey moved to Tobago with Merrell when she was a baby. They returned and resettled on Sanibel when Merrell was a toddler. Merrell grew up on Sanibel and spent her early adult years traveling extensively. She settled in Charlottesville, Virginia and worked as a travel agent for many years. Her love of travel then led her to a career in the airline industry in Tampa, FL. After her time with the airline, she left the travel industry and began a career as an insurance agent.
Merrell returned home to Fort Myers, Florida in 2003 where she lived until her passing. She worked as an insurance agent on Sanibel, and served the Sanibel community through her involvement as a former board member for the St. Michael’s Episcopal Church Women, and as a board member at the Island Inn.
A daughter, sister, niece, aunt, cousin, and friend. Merrell adored get-togethers with friends, good times, and laughter. She loved shelling out on the beach and liked trying to find the perfect shell. She was an avid crafter and enjoyed perusing thrift stores. She had a soft spot for dogs, her cats, and spending time with family and friends. All those who knew Merrell loved her smile and her silly, endearing sense of humor. She had a knack for telling funny stories and making everyone around her feel more joyous.
Merrell is survived by her sister Jennifer Ann Rushworth, her brother John L. Rushworth Jr., her sister-in-law Carol Rushworth, niece Lindsay Rushworth, and nephews Scott Rushworth and John (Jack) L. Rushworth III, along with many cousins and extended family. Merrell meant so much to so many people who knew and loved her. She will be missed greatly.
Merrell’s wishes are for a small family gathering which will occur at a later date.
If you wish to honor Merrell, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, or give blood donations to your local blood bank.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kiserfh.com for the RUSHWORTH family.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18