Effingham Woman Claudine Rush Dies at 92

Celebration of life planned for longtime community member and church volunteer

Apr. 16, 2026 at 3:11am

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An abstracted, blurred photograph of a church interior, with warm light and color creating a soft, dreamlike atmosphere that evokes a sense of community and remembrance.The vibrant weekend celebration of Claudine Rush's life will bring fond memories and community spirit to Effingham.Denver Today

Claudine Rush, a 92-year-old resident of Effingham, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at her home. A celebration of life will be held for family and friends on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at the First Christian Church in Effingham.

Why it matters

Claudine Rush was an active member of the Effingham community, involved with the Effingham County Genealogical and Historical Society, the Effingham County Museum, and her local church. Her passing marks the end of an era for a longtime resident who dedicated herself to preserving local history and serving her community.

The details

Claudine Rush was born on September 29, 1933 north of Mason, Illinois to Claude and Marie McManaway. She married Kenneth Rush on July 29, 1950 in Dieterich, Illinois, and they were married for 65 years until his death in 2016. Claudine worked at various places over the years, including WCRA in Effingham and WJBD in Salem, before retiring from World Color Press in 1993. She was an active member of the First Christian Church of Effingham.

  • Claudine Rush passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 5:08 AM.
  • A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 2:00-5:00 PM.

The players

Claudine Rush

A 92-year-old resident of Effingham, Illinois who was an active member of the local community, involved with the Effingham County Genealogical and Historical Society, the Effingham County Museum, and her local church.

Kenneth Rush

Claudine Rush's husband of 65 years, who passed away in 2016.

Pat Thomas (Gaylord) Loy

Claudine Rush's special cousin from Effingham, Illinois.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in Effingham, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Pat Thomas (Gaylord) Loy, Claudine Rush's cousin

What’s next

The celebration of life for Claudine Rush will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 2:00-5:00 PM at the First Christian Church in Effingham, Illinois.

The takeaway

Claudine Rush's passing marks the end of an era for a longtime Effingham resident who dedicated herself to preserving local history and serving her community through her involvement with the Effingham County Genealogical and Historical Society, the Effingham County Museum, and her local church.