Thomas W. Rushing

Thomas W. Rushing, 80, of Lebanon, Oklahoma, passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at Oklahoma Heart Hospital in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Thomas was born on May 4, 1946, in Lebanon, to the late George Thomas Rushing and Ruby Dee Lemons Rushing. He married Anne Marie Gonzalez on December 21, 1990, in Ardmore, Oklahoma.

Thomas graduated from Madill High School in 1964. He continued his education at the University of Oklahoma, where he earned a Ph.D. in American history. He later taught at the University of Oklahoma.

Thomas was self-employed and owned and operated T.R. Welding Service, Inc. He was a hardworking businessman who took pride in his work. He also enjoyed raising show pigs, smoking briskets, and helping young people with their show pigs. He especially enjoyed sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation.

Thomas will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Anne Marie Rushing; his children, Terry Rushing and wife Amanda of Madill, Tonia King and husband Andy, Cole Rushing and wife Madison of Iowa; Cory Griffin and wife Maryam of Dallas, Texas, Grandchildren; Ty, Logan, Ashley, Dalton, Emma, Urban and Witten and his sister, Ruth Ann McDaniel of Chickasha, Oklahoma. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents and one grandbaby; Tyler. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew and loved him.