Celebrating the life of
Minette G. Rushing
February 11, 1955 - December 27, 2025
Minette G. Rushing, 70, died peacefully on Saturday, December 27, 2025, following a brief illness with multiple myeloma, with her beloved husband and son by her side.
Minette was born in Bossier City, Louisiana, to the late Majorie Grizzle and Chad Grizzle, Chief Master Sergeant, United States Air Force (Retired).
A renowned wedding cake designer, Minette, was celebrated for her extraordinary sugar flower artistry, which became the signature detail of countless weddings and celebrations. Her work graced events for celebrities, athletes, prominent Southern families, and—most especially—her cherished friends. She was widely regarded as an icon in the wedding industry.
Minette was also a passionate educator who was wildly generous with her time and talent. Hundreds of students spent hours in her kitchen studio, honing their craft while learning the business of baking. She believed that mastering pricing was just as important as perfecting a David Austin rose or hydrangea. Minette was adamant that a business should serve one’s life—not the other way around. Through her teaching, mentorship, and social media presence, she freely shared her philosophy, creativity, and deep love for her clients. Her friendship and mentorship knew no boundaries.
Minette was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Mary Elizabeth “Lizzie” Rushing of New York, and by her parents.
She is survived by her husband, James Rushing; her son, Jon Rushing; and her sister, Jena Buttimer, of Lawrenceville, Georgia.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional care and support provided by the Neuro ICU staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Special thanks are also offered to Suzanne Edenfield, Diana Teston, Linda Elliott, Donna Van Browning, and Michele Coffee for their many years of friendship and enduring support of Minette.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, December 30, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel, 7200 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Savannah, Georgia 31406.
A graveside service will take place Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens in Savannah, Georgia, with David Lemberg officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Dr. Suzanne Edenfield Scholarship Fund, c/o Savannah Technical College Foundation, or One Love Animal Rescue of Savannah, Georgia.
Prayers of peace and comfort. Minette was a true artist and highly respected in our industry. I personally learned so much from her work and guidance. Beautiful soul. Beautiful sugar flowers. Beautifully well-lived life. Condolences to the entire family.
- Pamela Josey Pope , Maiden, NC
We lost an Angel. So talented and so giving of her talents.
- Pat Hackney, Savannah, GA
My sincere condolences to the Rushing family. Ms Minette was so kind to me during my years at Armstrong State . She made the world more beautiful.
- Sineath Falls, Clover, SC
A candle has been lit!
My most sincere condolences to all who knew and loved her, May she rest in heavenly peace, Thank you for all the beautiful talent you taught so many , sending love and comfort.
- Carmen Sotela, Ontario, CA
Minette made my mother's eightieth (and final) birthday cake as a recreation of the famed Tiffany and Co. turquoise and white gift box. It was almost too pretty to cut but we did and it was delicious, white with raspberry filling. Minette was a treasure to know, a very special woman who was dedicated to her craft, clients, and friends. Her unique Southern first name was all anyone needed to hear when asking about ordering a specialty cake. "Minette" said it all.
- Julia J. Williams, Isle of Hope, Georgia
I am truly lost for words, we have lost a great friend, mentor and at times just a great ear to listen to us! Love you and I know you are in heaven. My condolences to your family and all that had the honor of knowing you.
- Jennifer Espinal, Brooklyn , NY
A candle has been lit!
Heaven gained one beautifully talented cake artist. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. God rest her sweet soul. Prayers to her family.
- Ginger Varner , Richmond Hill , Georgia
You were a true force, Minette. Thank you for all that you taught me, both in life and in business. Raising me up from an 18 year old to a 32 year old was no small task, especially when you lost your own daughter. But I'm very thankful for all that you did, and I'm sorry we couldn't reconnect sooner. Jon and Jim, you are loved and you are in my thoughts.
- Ashley Perkins, Seattle, WA
As a fellow college student, I have been lucky to know Minette for almost a lifetime. Always enjoyed her dry wit, even when she told me you are not part of my target audience after viewing my Easter eggs-so accurate a review of my cooking. She is missed, and will continue to be missed but in my memory.
- Wheeler Diane, Tampa, FL
While I never had the pleasure to meet Minnete in person, her presence was felt in Atlanta. I knew Minette through the cake world. She shared great business and decorating advice. One of which was to form strong relationships. I certainly felt a bond to her and I appreciate all she contributed to the cake world in her skill, talent, and big heart. My condolences to her family.
- Nevia Giles, Decatur , GA
I follow Minette on Instagram and I asked her few questions related to cake or I would comment on her stories and she always replied back! I always told her, you're kind to reply back. She shared lots of cake advice on her Instagram that I always enjoyed listening to and that I would even share with my son, so now he knows Minette is the one who suggested so and so. She's empowering to be passionately working in what she enjoys till the day that she "passed on", leaving a legacy and followers who are impacted positively be her. Rest in peace Minette.
- Randa , Chicago illinois, I
My deepest sympathy to Jim and Jon and the entire Rushing community. It was with great sadness that I learned of Minette passing. She was one of my dearest friends in my whole life. In the time that I have known her, I grew to love Minette for her sincere kindness, her unwavering loyalty, her unselfish artistry, and yes, her wicked wit. It was a true blessing to have had such a fierce, strong, unwavering friendship with Minette. I will cherish it forever. Minette gave so much joy and happiness to so many people through her work and personal life. She made a meaningful contribution, positively impacting many lives and leaving the world a better place. She will be missed tremendously. May every memory we have and share of Minette and her life be a testament to her legacy.
- Gail Kozikowski, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
This condolence shouldn't even be happening. I keep telling myself that we are going to message back and forth....but that has not happened. I cant even begin to find words to comfort the family because I just have not accepted it myself. She was absolutely the most selfless person I have EVER met. Never too busy or tired to answer and to help. God knows the Cake World will never, ever be the same. To the family.... Just know you have her cake family here for anything you may need... always!!!
- Chef Jan Sellers-Heizer, Paragould, Arkansas
A candle has been lit!
She will be missed terribly by neighbors, and friends. She was always a joy to talk to. My condolences to Mr. Jim and Jon, prayers for peace and comfort
- Patti & Al Riner, Pembroke, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Visitation
- 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Tue, December 30, 2025
- Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
-
7200 Hodgson Memorial Drive (map)
Savannah GA 31406 - 912-352-7200
- Graveside Service
- 11:00 a.m. on Wed, December 31, 2025
- Forest Lawn Memory Gardens
-
315 Greenwich Road (map)
Savannah GA 31404

