Rosemary Rush was born April 5, 1926 in Detroit, Michigan and was the eldest of four children of the late William and Gertrude Merriweather. She was educated in the Detroit Public School system and graduated from Commerce High School in 1944. She began working for the Federal government in an entry level clerical position after graduation. However, she was terminated from that position during the McCarthy era Witch-hunt when it was discovered that her father, a political activist, was a supporter of the Garvey Movement and later of Coleman Young, Damon Keith and other up and coming politicians. As a result of her father's involvement, she was labeled a Communist and fired from her job.

She went on to secure employment with the City of Detroit and subsequently retired from Wayne County as Executive Secretary to the Director of Social Services.

In 1960, she married Eddie Rush Jr. They were both active members of the Shrine of the Black Madonna under the leadership of Reverend Albert B. Cleage.

Mrs. Rush enjoyed traveling, reading, mentoring, bingo, the casino and other activities until ill health began to take a toll.

Three siblings preceded her in death: William Merriweather Jr., Allen Merriweather and Portia Ramey.

She leaves to celebrate her life one daughter, Diann Cotton, and many devoted family members and friends.