William Edward Rushing, 80, of Wylie, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on July 20, 2026.

 Edward was born on October 20, 1945, in Kaufman, Texas, to Barney James Rushing and Carrie Ella Rushing (Williams). He was raised in Crandall, Texas, where he graduated from Crandall High School in 1964. As a senior he was voted “Mr. Crandall High School” by his fellow students. He later earned a Bachelor of Science degree from East Texas State University. In 1968, Edward was drafted into the United States Army. He proudly served in the Headquarters and Headquarters Battery of the 6th Battalion, 59th Air Defense Artillery Regiment while stationed in West Germany and was honorably discharged in 1970. Following his military service, Edward worked briefly for Sherwin-Williams before beginning a long career with Hostess and Wonder Bread, where he served as both a branch manager and a sales representative.

 Edward was a gentle, kind, and loving man who always had a smile for strangers and loved ones alike. He possessed a warm, fun-loving spirit and was always looking for ways to brighten someone else's day. He valued family, togetherness, and spending time with the people he loved the most. Those who knew him best will remember his calm demeanor, his willingness to help, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. Growing up, Edward enjoyed spending every moment he could with his family down at Mama Rushing’s place in Warsaw, Texas. That love of family time would never diminish. Every holiday or vacation was an opportunity to load up the car and go spend time with family. In his golden years he always looked forward to camping with the family at Lake Whitney. 

In 1972, Edward married the love of his life, Karen Lea Duhamel. Together they built a home centered on love and family, raising three sons and creating a lifetime of memories. He loved her every minute of every day and never missed an opportunity to make sure she knew it. He quickly became a son to her mother, a brother to her siblings, and dear Uncle Edward to all her nieces and nephews. Edward was the proud father of three big ol’ Rushing boys; Mike, Joey, and Josh. He taught them how to throw a ball, shoot a slingshot, and tell a story. He was always ready to listen, quick to encourage, and gentle when correction was needed.

 He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, J.L. Rushing; and his sister, Melba Davis. He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Karen Rushing (Duhamel); his sons, Michael Rushing, Joseph Rushing, and Joshua Rushing; his brothers, Charles Rushing and Harold Rushing; his sister, Betty Curtis; and many extended family members and friends who will dearly miss ol’ Uncle Edward.

 Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at Williams Funeral Home in Garland, Texas, followed by the funeral service at 10:30 a.m. A graveside service with military honors will follow at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery in Dallas, Texas, where Edward will be laid to rest.