WILMINGTON — Reba Lee Cushing, better known as “Mama, ” “Hyde,” or “Grandma,” flew out of here Monday, Jan. 9, 2017, on angel’s wings to join her beloved husband, James E. Cushing Jr.; and daughter, Libby Cushing Suttle, in the kingdom of heaven. Hopefully, she will be surrounded by fellow ECU Pirates who share her love of purple and gold.
Reba was born on July 28, 1928, to Eli and Kate Lee. She spent a large part of her life on a farm in Meadow, N.C., a place she loved so dearly. After losing her beloved husband, better known as “Big Man,” she spent many happy years traveling the continental U.S. with her best friend and partner in crime, Charles “Chick” Daniels. Unfortunately, Chick passed away in 2005 and left her with a boatload of memories.
Reba spent her early years, after graduating from ECU, teaching girls P.E. at Chestnut School and being a mother to Libby and James E. “Jimmy” Cushing III, her beloved son, who was with her during her last hours giving her comfort and joy.
Reba was a colorful, spunky and lively woman who loved her family dearly. She was a New Hanover Hospital Pink Lady Volunteers for many years and was a devoted member of Pearsall Memorial Presbyterian Church. Labor Day will always hold a special place for those that are left to cherish her memory. Hyde always loved scouting for doves at the annual family dove hunt.
Left to carry on her legacy of love and laughter are James E. Cushing III, and his wife, Joanne Davenport; beloved grandchildren, James E. Cushing IV, and his wife, Ashlynn, Andrew Cushing, Bridger Davenport, Taylor Suttle Joyner, and her husband, Ben, Cole Suttle and Kris Thompson; great-grandchildren, Harper Cushing and Hollin Cushing and Keith and Lynn Suttle; and sister-in-law, Laura Hope Lee. A special thank you to Monica Lee, Reba’s devoted niece, who provided loving care and friendship through her final days.
A visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, at Andrews Valley Chapel, 4108 S. College Road. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, at Oleander Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice, or Pearsall Memorial Presbyterian Church.