WILMINGTON — Josephine J. “Jo” Rusher, 96, passed away Thursday, Sept. 20, 2018. She was of the Catholic faith.
Jo was the daughter of Stanley and Bertha Janicki of Castle Hayne and spent her childhood as part of the Polish farm community in that area. After graduating from New Hanover High School, Jo began pursuing numerous business endeavors. She had a passion for textiles and interior design and began her entrepreneurial career as owner of The Merry Jo Fabrics in Wilmington, where she designed and fabricated draperies for many homes in the area. Later, she owned and operated Harbor Inn Motel on Harbor Island, as well as Country Corner Fabrics in Wilmington.
Jo was preceded in death by her husband, Edward A. Rusher Sr.; and brothers, Stanley (Bo) Janicki, and Arthur Janicki. She is survived by her sister, Isabelle Bastues of Garden Grove, California; daughter, Jacqueline Dean (Tom) of Knoxville, Tennessee; and son, Alan Rusher of Wilmington.
A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 30, at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church Cemetery, Castle Hayne, followed by a receiving of friends in the church parish hall.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to The Boys and Girls Home, 400 Flemington Drive, Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450; or Paws Place, 242 George II Highway, Winnabow, NC 28479.
Share online condolences with the family at Andrews Mortuary & Crematory.
