Donald R. Bushong

Donald R. Bushong, 84, of Raymond, took a flight home with the Angels to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 4, 2023 following many months of failing health.           

A devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, he was a graduate of Northwestern High School where he was active in the FFA. Don first worked at O.M. Scott’s and later as a custodian at the Raymond Elementary School until his retirement. He was always touched by the many former students acknowledging him over the years when they were adults. He was an excellent gardener and along with his wife, he owned and operated Bushong’s Garden Center and Nursery in Raymond for 45 years. He was always extremely proud of his geraniums. He looked forward to attending the Circleville Pumpkin show, growing his own large pumpkins and affectionately naming many of them after his loved ones, and showing his pumpkins and vegetables at the Richwood Fair. Having a love for animals, he dearly loved his pets over the years, and raising his turkeys and ducks. He also enjoyed mowing the yard, traveling with Barb, fishing in his pond, going hunting in his younger years and was an avid fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes. After giving his life to Jesus as a teenager, he would continue to live out his faith walk daily. He was an active member of the Shiloh Friends Church in Marysville, and he was formerly an active member of the Church of Christ in Christian Union in Raymond. Along with his father, he helped build the current Church of Christ in Christian Union on Bear Swamp Rd.

Born January 8, 1939 in Raymond, he was the son of the late Sumner and Mildred (Jackson) Bushong. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a son, Todd Bushong and infant twin grandsons, Ethan and Ian.

On November 19, 1961 at the West Union Church of Christ in Christian Union, he married his wife of nearly 62 years, Barbara (Blanton) Bushong and she survives in Raymond. He is also survived by a son, Craig (Amy) Bushong of Marysville; grandchildren, Carrie Rieck of Columbus, Cameron Bushong of Athens and Madison Bushong of Marysville; a sister, Patricia (James) Bean of Hilliard and his beloved cats, Lucy White and Zoe.

Funeral services to celebrate Don’s life will be held at 1:00 P.M. Thursday, November 9, 2023 at the Wilson Funeral Home, Mannasmith Chapel. Pastor Jim Davis will officiate and burial will follow at the Raymond Cemetery. Friends may call from 3:00-7:00 P.M. Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at the funeral home. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Shiloh Friends Church or NAMI Ohio in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.wilsonfuneralhomesinc.com