Bertha Mae Rushing

Bertha Mae Rushing, a beloved mother, grandmother, godmother, and friend, peacefully departed this life on July 2, 2026, at her home at Golden Crest Assisted Living in Westminster, MD. Born on November 30, 1941, in Laurel, MD, Bertha was the cherished daughter of Edward Guy and Blanche Leishure.

 Bertha spent her early years in the vibrant community of Laurel, MD, where she graduated from Laurel High School in 1960. Soon thereafter, she married the love of her life, Carlos D. Rushing Sr., on July 23, 1960. Together for a wonderful 44 years, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion, raising three beautiful children, Carlos Rushing Jr., Mary Pelch, and the late Carla Lynn Rushing. 

Her career path led her to fulfilling roles at Ft. Meade and the Laurel Racecourse before she settled into a distinguished career at John Hopkins Applied Physics Lab, where she worked diligently until her retirement in 1999. Bertha was an active member of Wards Chapel Methodist Church and a past member of the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary, where she dedicated her time and energy to serving others and supporting community initiatives.

Bertha's passions in life were many, but her love for camping, fishing, and crabbing with family at Point Lookout, MD, was unmatched. She delighted in the camaraderie and joy of family gatherings, whether at home or Scotts Cove, and was known for her enthusiasm for bingo and card games, playing several times a week with a competitive spirit. 

A woman of tremendous heart and humor, Bertha was always a staunch advocate and protector of her family. Her motto, "Don't worry about me," was a testament to her selflessness and deep care for her loved ones' well-being. She brought joy and laughter to those around her, always quick with a joke and a mischievous smile. For goodness sakes don't call her "Bertha" unless you want to get the stink eye, and a growl. Despite her adventurous spirit, she was not known for her skills on a certain nephew's mini bike—a memory that brings smiles to those who recall it. 

Bertha's later years were enriched by her cherished shopping trips with her daughter Mary, where the joy of the experience far outweighed the necessity of a purchase. Her favorite two-sided blanket, with its navy side up, was a comforting companion to her in her final years. 

Bertha is survived by her son, Carlos Rushing Jr., her daughter Mary Pelch and husband Kevin, her grandsons Edward Rushing and wife Hannah, Justin Rushing, Kevin Rushing and fiancé Hannah Dever, her godson Thomas Leizear and wife Aileen, and numerous nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her husband Carlos, her daughter Carla, her brother Edward Lee Leisher, her sister Mary Leizear, nephew Edward Lee Leisher, and her great-nephew Mathew Leizear.

 In honor of Bertha's generous spirit, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to als.org or American Cancer Society, organizations that reflect her enduring commitment to helping others.

Bertha Mae Rushing's life was a testament to love, resilience, and the importance of family. Her legacy lives on in the hearts and memories of those she touched. She will be profoundly missed but lovingly remembered by all who knew her.