CDR William G. Brush USN (Retired)Cullum: 26054 Class: 1965 Cadet Company: D1 Date of Birth: September 14, 1943 Date of Death: July 31, 2021 Died in: St. James City, FL Interred: TBD - View or Post a Eulogy |
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William Edward Brush was born on September 14, 1943 to Isabelle and Frederick Brush at the Norfolk, VA naval station. His father was a United States Naval Academy (USNA) graduate and a career naval officer. Raised in a proud Military family, William—known affectionately as Bill to friends and family—exemplified discipline, athletic excellence, and a passion for the outdoors from a young age. He was an All-American baseball player and a devoted fisherman, hobbies that grounded him throughout life and shaped his love of competition and calm reflection.
When Bill arrived at West Point in July 1961, very few knew that he was the son of a USNA graduate who had distinguished himself as a decorated fighter squadron commander during World War II. Additionally, few knew of the fact that his brother was a “Middie,” currently with the same class at USNA.
Many of his West Point classmates called him Bill, while some referred to him as Fuller. He was one of those unheralded leaders who was able to manage the rigors of West Point academics while keeping the tactical department at bay during his four years as a cadet. His ability to frequently commit infractions of tactical regulations without being caught became the envy of his classmates and the chagrin of his tactical officer aka, “Super TAC.” He was also known for his ability to fix up his classmates with blind dates, and at least one of those classmates is indebted to Bill for introducing him to his lifelong partner.
On graduation day, Bill’s parents had the dilemma of how they would be able to attend the ceremony for both Bill and his Naval Academy brother, Fred. As it turned out, Bill’s classmate Tim Vogel had a brother who was also graduating from USNA on the same day. The First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson, made arrangements for a flight to West Point so the parents would be able to attend both graduations. The tale of this unique story was featured in several newspapers. Bill’s father, then a rear admiral, swore him in, and Bill started his career as a U.S. Navy officer.
Bill became the first West Point graduate to go directly into the Officer Supply School at Athens, GA. During his career, he served multiple tours in Vietnam with honor, and he was awarded several Navy decorations. His military career reflected a deep dedication to country and comrades alike.
After retiring from active duty, he continued serving the nation as a Department of Defense contractor, where he helped lead the development of the F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet in collaboration with Hughes Aircraft, leaving a lasting mark on naval aviation and national defense.
Furthering his commitment to leadership and professional growth, Bill earned a Master of Science in management from Rollins College on August 15, 1978. Bill was a true sports enthusiast, particularly passionate about football and never missing the annual Army-Navy Game, which he watched with great interest and a friendly wager. A natural whiz with numbers and odds, he relished the challenge and fun of predicting the outcomes.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bill was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He shared over four decades of marriage with his beloved wife, Judith Ann, who passed away unexpectedly from a stroke in 2020. He was the proud father of two children: Damon (from his earlier marriage to Lydia) and Jamie. He found tremendous joy in his three grandchildren: Brielle, Colton, and Saylor.
In retirement, Bill returned to the water as a fishing captain, combining his lifelong love of the sea with the joy of sharing that passion with others. He remained an avid sportsman and storyteller, and his quiet wisdom and strength continued to inspire those around him.
Bill Brush passed away due to complications from Agent Orange exposure, a sacrifice tied to his years of dedicated military service. His life was marked by honor, innovation, and unwavering love for family and country. In accordance with his desire, his ashes were scattered of the coast of Florida in the bay off Pine Island.
His legacy lives on in the skies he helped secure, the waters he cherished, and in the hearts of those who called him husband, father, grandfather, and friend.
— Jamie Marie DeLacey, Daughter
