Russell "Rusty" Edward Hughes died on Oct. 14, the loving father of Christian Hughes; beloved husband of Sara Eaton; cherished son of Russell (Patsy) Hughes and the late Merry Ann Hughes; dear brother to Dawn Lee Ann (Harold Key-V) Williams, Bethany Hughes, Jenny (Scott) McCain, Dustin (Jacquie) Hodges, and Joe (Stephanie) Hodges; and a treasured uncle, cousin, nephew, and friend to many.
Born Oct. 31, 1981, Rusty was a natural performer, sharing his music and comedy everywhere. He was an excellent cook, showing his love through homemade meals. He worked hard at every job he held, holding at least two at any time. Rusty was hilarious, strong, courageous, caring. He didn't have acquaintances, only friends, finding a way to relate to the hardest of hearts. Struggling with his demons, he never failed to make another person laugh.
Rusty's family was his world. He was a light in our lives; they were his light. More than anyone, he loved Christian, born in 2008. Despite his struggles, Rusty tried to be the father Chris needed. Rusty and Sara shared seven years of love and laughter. Times could be difficult as they fought the battle of Rusty's addiction together; she was both his rock and his soft spot to land.
While his death was unexpected, Rusty suffered from drug addiction, and we lived with the fear that addiction would claim his life. Over the past three years, Rusty's disease took him through incredible darkness. In July 2017, Rusty checked into rehab, found sobriety, and formed a relationship with God. After graduation, Rusty came home and for seven months was the man his family knew and loved. For those wonderful months--with family trips to the river, dinners cooked together, a new job--we believed he would overcome his disease and have the life we knew he deserved. We believed this until the moment he took his last breath. But addiction is a relentless liar; it told Rusty he wasn't good enough. Despite his family around him, it told him he was alone. It told him the only way to escape pain was to use. Though we would give anything to have him with us, his addiction would not quit until it took him. We are comforted knowing Rusty is free from the struggle that haunted him, and only wish he could have known that freedom in this life. We are grateful for the time we had together and the memories we shared.
Memorial services will be held on Nov. 3 at 2:15 p.m. at the River View Room at 132 N Main St., Cape Girardeau, Mo., with visitation at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, consider donating to John 3:16, where Rusty spent time and felt supported. Donations can be made at john316thecure.com.
If you yourself are struggling from addiction, know that every breath is a fresh start. Know that hundreds of thousands of families who have lost someone to this disease are praying and rooting for you. Know that we believe with all our hearts that you can and will make it. It is never too late.
Paid