Eddie Rush Southern

Eddie Rush Southern, age 76, is now “Just beyond the moon”. He passed away peacefully in his loving home, surrounded by family, on May 15, 2026. He was born on August 31, 1949, in Garden City, Kansas, to his parents, Presley Rush Southern and Lorene Teresa LaGesse.

On September 9, 1972, Eddie married the love of his life, Teresa Rae Blythe. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and creating memories that will be remembered by their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Eddie proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserves, first as a Drill Sergeant training troops, later as a fireman.

Eddie was a simple man who never measured life by material possessions. Instead, he valued family, hard work, honesty, and time spent with the people he loved. Selfless by nature, he was always willing to lend a helping hand, share his knowledge, or put the needs of others before his own. He never asked why me when he was informed of his diagnosis, nor did you ever hear him complain, not once. He stood strong, and daily did what he needed to do, to get through without neglecting his responsibilities as a husband, dad, grandpa, and friend. He still showed up every place he was needed. He even showed up in places he had no business being in, with his health being so fragile. He is simply admired by many because he demonstrated what God’s definition of a man is. 

He gave us so many treasured memories. Whether camping, playing on the water in the boat, fishing, sharing campfire stories, or riding on the riverbed in his CJ7 Jeep, learning gun safety, shooting trap, he created moments that his family will cherish forever. He taught us how to work on cars, remodel houses, and figure out how to fix just about anything ourselves. One of his greatest passions is rebuilding antique cars. He built three beautiful cars: a 1955 Chevy, A 1931 Model A, 1948 Dodge convertible. He is survived by his loving wife of more than 53 years, Teresa Rae Southern; his four children, Jeffery Southern, James & Tabitha Southern, Michael & Lisa Southern, and Melissa Southern. Sister, Georgeana Southern. Twelve grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.

Eddie fought hard to stay here with us and faced his final days with the same strength and determination that defined his life. His last words to his family were, "I love you". Even in his last breath.

When you see his wineberry, 1955 Chevrolet with ghost flames, remember Eddie and how deeply he is loved by his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sister, and friends. When you want to see him or talk to him, just look at the moon, he said. Listen to Tex Ritter, Just Beyond the Moon, if you want to feel close to him.