Our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Harriet Ann Rush, peacefully passed away on October 27, 2023, with her best friend and eternal companion, Charlie, by her side.
Harriet was born to Glen and Ruth Crandell on June 27, 1937, in Clay Springs, AZ. She was the sixth of eight children: Dutch, Kathryn, Glenna, Julia, Delbert, Donovan, and J.R. Crandell. Harriet is preceded in death by her parents and siblings except Delbert, Julia, and J.R. who will dearly miss their sister, Hadget (as they called her). Harriet adored her large, loving, hard-working family growing up in the mountains of Arizona and New Mexico.
Young Harriet took a big chance on a rough soldier on April 11, 1953, by marrying him. His military career took them to many places around the world, where she was often on her own raising a large family, but the road eventually led them back to Mesa, AZ. Charlie and Harriet recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary—an amazing testament to their love for each other.
Harriet’s greatest joy in life was her family. During their more than 70 years together, Charlie and Harriet welcomed 6 children into the world: Dan (Judi) Rush, Pam (Brent) Spencer, Joan (Jay) James, Tom (Kaye) Rush, Jackie (Kirt) Davis, and Jeff (Charlotte) Rush. They have been blessed with 31 grandchildren and 75 great-grandchildren (this number continues to grow). You could rarely find her without a grandbaby snuggled in her arms.
Harriet lived a wonderful life of service and devotion. She served faithfully in various callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including a full-time mission in the Washington DC area and many years working in the Mesa Arizona Temple. Everything in her life revolved around her family and her devotion to the Lord.
Our sweet Harriet will be remembered for how she loved genuinely and generously, for how particular she was with so many aspects of her life, for how gracefully she carried herself, and for how positive she was—never wanting to put anyone out. We look forward to the day we reunite with her again, hear her voice, and give her a tight hug and kiss.
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Our deepest sympathies in the loss of such a wonderful lady and matriarch. Hugs to Jeff and his family and love to all of the family.
So sad to hear about the passing of Harriet. I’m Kaye’s sister, and Kaye & Tom have always spoken so lovingly about her and Charlie. Tom is the best and I’m certain some of that is due to being raised by such a wonderful mother!❤️
I haven’t seen Harriet in years, but have such a love for the Rush family. She is such a great example to me. My prayers are with the Rush family! She will be close by you. Families are Forever. Love you!
What a great family the Rush’s are. And Harriet was the mom. What love- what friendship –
what everything– Our kids were raised to gather. Valerie is in a home and Harriet came to see her
two weeks ago. Val talks about that visit all the time. We will miss her big time.
We wish the best to the rush family. —- Love you all big time.
–Valerie and Dee Webb —
As neighbors to Kirt & Jackie, we saw your beautiful, sweet mom in action as she loved & supported the Davis family. We’re sorry for your loss. It’s extra hard to say goodbye to our moms. Our thoughts & prayers are with you.
I’ve known Jackie and family, most of my life. They are a great family and excellent example of how a Christian should be. I have wonderful memories growing up with Jackie as my best friend, think the world of her and her family. Our prayers go out to the whole family that they may be blessed with the peace and comfort that only God can give. That she is in a better place, filled with love, peace, joy and Happiness. No doubt she will be helping to watch over all of you. Love ya all
So sorry to hear of the loss of your sweet wife and Mom. She wS a great example of motherhood and patience. Her dedication to serving in the church is admired. May all the Rush family be blessed with comfort and peace at this time.