Born in Cullman, Ala. on March 23, 1922, Willene Bush, of Muscle Shoals, entered into her rest on Nov. 14, 2012. Theresa Willene Collier was the fourth and last remaining child of Helena (Sommer) and Walter Collier. Her parents were lifelong residents of Cullman County. Her brothers, Leonard (Vernie) and Lonnie (Francis), lived and died in Cullman and her sister, Ethel Goodson (James,) was a long-time resident of Little Rock, Ark.
Willene was married for over 53 years to Byron “Pete” Bush, a TVA retiree, who preceded her in death 17 years ago. They raised five children, Byron (Joanne), lives in Florence, Walt (Sandra), lives in Tuscumbia, Lenard (Kay), lives in Hixson, Tenn., Susan Vogel, lives in Fairfield Glade, Tenn., and Vann (Debbie), lives in Barlett, Ill. Willene (Mama Bush) was blessed with 11 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren. There are 25 surviving nephews and nieces. Her grandsons, Byron III, Craig, Eric, Todd, Zak and Aaron, will serve as pallbearers and her granddaughters, Cara Davis, Jennifer Hodge, Amanda O’Rear, Kelye Cauldwell, and Sara Beth Bush, will serve as honorary pallbearers.
Willene had a vital, unshakable faith in Jesus Christ, expressed in many acts of service wherever she lived in church school, vacation Bible school, orphanages, nursing home visitation and Bible study groups. She made friends around the world, touching their lives with her generous hospitality, counseling and edifying fellowship. Willene also had a ministry with cards of encouragement. She was a member of Woodmont Baptist Church in Florence.
The funeral service celebrating Willene’s homegoing will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 17 at Colbert Memorial Chapel in Tuscumbia. Reverend Jerry Rea, of Woodmont Baptist Church, will lead the service. Visitation for friends and family will be one hour preceding the funeral.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Keller Hospice at 404 Avalon Ave. Muscle Shoals, AL., 35661.
You may sign the online register at colbertmemorial.com.
Colbert Memorial Chapel is assisting the family.
