Nancy Gayle Rust

Nancy Gayle Rust, aged 73 of Louisville, Kentucky passed away peacefully in the early morning of January 17, 2026 surrounded by family. Her legacy of unconditional love, family and compassion will be carried on by those she loved dearly.

Born on September 21, 1952 in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, she was the cherished daughter of Lawrence and Barbara Lemon. The first of three children, she was raised in Parkersburg, West Virginia, where she graduated Parkersburg High School and later attended Glenville State College, where she met her beloved husband of 53 years, Michael Thomas Rust. They later moved to Orlando, Florida where they lived for many years while raising their children, Kelli Wicking and Joshua Rust. While living in Orlando, Nancy returned to school and received her nursing degree in 1985. She went on to become a head nurse on the critical care unit of Orlando Regional Medical Center. A born nurturer, she not only helped others with her vast medical knowledge, her empathy and compassion no doubt touched the lives of many patients and families during their darkest days.

Upon moving to Louisville, Kentucky in 1996, Nancy retired from nursing to focus on other interests and most importantly, her family. She was without a doubt, the heart and soul of her family. Gracious, kind and selfless, she was a calming presence to everyone who was lucky enough to know her. Always thinking of others, you could often find her doting on her grandchildren, cooking everyone’s favorite chicken enchiladas or pepperoni rolls, or offering to help with everyday mundane tasks to make their lives a little easier. She created a lovely home, full of comfort and warmth. Whether it was beautiful flowers, homemade desserts or thoughtful decorations, Nancy made everyone feel welcome and at home.

In addition to spending time with her family, she was also generous with her time and resources. In 2013, she established the Nancy Lemon Rust nursing scholarship to allow Glenville State University students to meet patient nursing needs while being given the opportunity of remaining and working in West Virginia. She was involved with The Fillies Inc., a distinguished organization of women dedicated to supporting the Kentucky Derby Festival, even serving as a President. She was also a member of The Women’s Club of Louisville. A woman of great faith, Nancy was a dedicated member and devoted volunteer at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church.

Nancy is preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Barbara Lemon. 

Nancy is survived by her loving husband, Michael Thomas Rust; her children , Kelli Wicking (David) and Joshua Rust (Amy); her four grandchildren who were the center of her universe, Tysen Kennedy, Jude Wicking, Cora Rust, and Quinn Rust. She is also survived by her cherished sister and brother, Jill Lemon Bartley and Jason Lemon (Mia), along with several nieces and nephews; and a host of family and friends.

The family would like to thank all of the nurses, doctors and staff at University of Louisville Trauma, Frazier Rehab, Jewish Hospital, Sam Swope Care Center and Baptist Health Louisville for their service and care.

Visitation will be from 10:30am to 12pm on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 with a celebration of Nancy's life to follow at 12pm, all at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 13800 Aiken Road Louisville, KY 40245.

Memorials may be made in Nancy's name to the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Continuing the Legacy Campaign.

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