Jane (Blackwood) Bush

Jane Blackwood Bush, a long-time resident of Hickory, died at home on December 30, 2020, just three days shy of the 11th anniversary of the death of her beloved husband, Bob. Born March 23, 1933 in Cherryville, NC, Jane was a graduate of Lenoir High School and attended Limestone College briefly.

Jane was an only child who found her hands full with three rowdy boys. Bob worked as a salesman for Hickory Springs and was typically traveling all week. Stern and proper, Jane taught her ruffian sons table manners, politeness and, most importantly, honesty and responsibility. She was a woman of grace and stature, dignified… but tough when necessary.

She loved to read and took up painting when time permitted. She was a member of the Service League and Hickory’s Quest Book Club.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Bob W. Bush, Sr. and son John William (Billy) Bush. Jane is survived by son Bobby, Jr. and wife Brenda; son Jimmy Bush and wife Donna; five grandchildren – Stephanie, Cory, Lindsey, Jay, and Amanda; and five great grandchildren- Jorge, Jake, Sydney, Claire, and James. After raising sons, she particularly enjoyed her granddaughters and great granddaughters.

Jane died after a long, arduous struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease which consumed the last ten years of her life, leaving her practically incapacitated for the last several years. The disease also took her Mother’s life roughly 25 years earlier. She was cared for at home by a team of caregivers who treated her as their own. These ladies became part of our family, providing sustenance, care, and love.

A small family service will be held at the Bush’s Oakwood Cemetery gravesite on Tuesday, January 5.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that contributions in Jane’s memory be made to the Hickory Choral Society (243 3rd Ave NE #2N, Hickory, NC 28601) and the Catawba Science Center (243 3rd Ave NE, Hickory, NC 28601).