Joseph Martin Rushford

In Leiu of Flowers and Memorials - Joseph's Family requests that any and all donations being made, be made out to St Francis Assisi RCC to help feed the needy and those who need assistance. Donations can be made here.

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With deep love and sorrow, the family of Joseph Martin Rushford shares his passing on December 8, 2025. Joseph, known to many as Joey, brought quick wit, fierce loyalty, and a big-hearted kindness to everyone fortunate enough to know him. He is survived by his sister Kathleen Rushford, his father Joseph Rushford, and his uncles Frank and John Rushford.

Joey’s childhood was shaped by adventure and resilience as the family moved from state to state during his father’s military service. Through every transition, he and Kathleen stood side by side, turning new places into shared memories. His humor was legendary in the family - like the night over tacos when he deadpanned, “Dad, did you choose taco night to tell us we’re part Mexican?” and sent the table into laughter. As kids, he and Kathleen would delight in convincing strangers they were identical twins rather than Irish twins, a joke that never got old.

Athletic by nature, Joey played high school football and later immersed himself in the boxing community, a discipline that brought him purpose and pride. He loved animals, especially his pit bull Bella, and carried a deep devotion to his grandmother Gloria, whose name he wore on his forearm as a daily tribute. He had a gift for making people laugh - especially his sister, often at her expense, always with perfect timing and affection.

Among his proudest accomplishments was the season of life when he completed rehabilitation. He emerged happier and healthier, carrying a hard-won hope that shone brightly and inspired those around him. He was also an avid bike rider and a passionate fan of rap music. Under the persona Jay McCoy, he wrote and performed his own songs - creative sparks that surprised and delighted his family.

What his family and friends loved most was Joey’s core of goodness - his kindness, his humor, his love for his grandmother and for Bella, and his fierce, if sometimes quiet, devotion to his father and sister. He loved deeply and fought hard, and his family will forever honor the fullness of his spirit - the laughter, the strength, the struggle, and the love.

Joey’s story lives on in the hearts of those who knew him best - in the miles he biked, the music he made, the jokes he told, and the tenderness he showed. May his memory be a blessing and his rest be peace.