Jimmy Dale "Jim" Rushing did things on his own terms—including making his quiet exit on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 5:56 p.m., just in time to miss another round of bad TV reruns. At 58 years young, Jim wrapped up his time here at Greenleaf Health Campus after an extended illness, leaving behind a collection of memories, a few chuckles, and plenty of stories that his loved ones will be telling for years to come.

Jim made his grand entrance into the world on August 26, 1966, in Trumann, Arkansas, born to Bufford and Margaret Joyce (Shelton) Rushing, who no doubt had their hands full from the start. His parents survive him in Elkhart, along with his devoted sister Janet (James) Slaight and a whole lineup of aunts and uncles, including Mary Ann Haynes (Pocahontas, AR), Glenda and Dewayne Osmun (Cherokee Village, AR), Linda and James Housh (Elkhart, IN), Elmo and Carol Shelton (Ravenden, AR), Kenneth and Beverly Shelton (Ravenden, AR), and Johnny and Virginia Rushing (Elkhart, IN)—a family tree with strong roots and plenty of colorful branches.

Waiting for him on the other side are his grandparents Lilly Mae and Louie Westerman, Lloyd Shelton, Loretta Rushing, and J.C. Rushing, along with his brother Mark Rushing, who we suspect had a front-row seat and a knowing grin as Jim arrived.

Jim had a knack for making people feel welcome, armed with a broad smile, twinkling eyes, and a sense of humor that could smooth over just about any rough patch. He had a lifelong love affair with anything on wheels—cars, trucks, motorcycles, and especially race cars. Since his garage space was limited, he wisely settled on collecting scale models and replicas, a passion he carried well into adulthood.

A devout Christian, Jim found comfort and strength in his faith, praying daily and staying close to his Lord. He shared an unshakable bond with his mother and Aunt Linda, who was always there to nudge him forward with a mix of love and tough encouragement. His response? A warm smile and that "I got this" attitude that defined him.

In keeping with Jim's wishes, cremation will take place under the care of Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Elkhart. His final pit stop will be at Prairie Street Cemetery on Friday, April 11, 2025, where his ashes will be laid to rest with his family at 2:00 pm. Pastor Kyle Grant of Elkhart's Grace Bible Church will officiate the service.

To honor his memory, donations may be made to a charity of one's choice—or, if you really want to do it Jim's way, treat yourself to something with four wheels, a roaring engine, or at least a really good set of tires.

Jim's story may have reached the finish line, but the memories he left behind will keep rolling on—because a life well-lived is never really parked for good.