Rustee Elyse Lane

Rustee Elyse Lane was born on August 9, 1947, in Tampa, Florida. She grew up in Orlando, Florida, and Fort Worth, Texas. She later lived in Charlotte, North Carolina, and for many years in Mint Hill, North Carolina, where she resided at the time of her passing.

Rustee was a gentle and sensitive soul with a core of solid steel. She was gentle as a lamb, yet as strong as a lion. Her combination of empathy and courage served as her guiding light throughout her life.

She enjoyed a career with the United States Postal Service, helping ensure that mail was sorted and delivered to families and businesses. Upon her retirement, she channeled her passion for music into managing several local artists. She was also instrumental in creating the Charlotte Music Awards, highlighting up-and-coming talent.

Senior citizens held a special place in her heart, and she organized several events for them. Most recently, even while battling illness, she launched a bingo program for seniors to enjoy.

Her father fought in two wars, and in that same spirit, Rustee was instrumental in helping bring the North Carolina Korean War Memorial to life. The memorial complex is located on land donated by the Town of Mint Hill on Fairview Road.

And for those who knew her, you would know that Rustee was a huge Elvis Presley fan. But did you know that she was actually the King of Rock and Roll's sixth cousin? With her curious and intelligent mind, she began digging deeper into her family roots. A true genealogy enthusiast, Rustee helped uncover the grave of Elvis's great-great-great-grandfather, Tunis Hood, located in an old cemetery in Mint Hill. She learned that Hood settled in Mint Hill in 1775, with much of his land encompassing what is now the intersection of Highway 51 and Idlewild Road, where Hoods Crossing Shopping Center stands today. She arranged for a commemorative plaque to be placed on a brick privacy wall at the back of the shopping center.

Rustee was also an animal lover who made her home a sanctuary for all living beings. Whether feeding the possums and raccoons in her backyard (which, yes, she named!) or caring for domestic animals, Rustee always had abundant love in her heart for those who needed care.

Rustee was a deeply spiritual person who believed in the power of prayer. Even during her greatest time of need, as she fought serious health challenges, her faith in God never wavered. She knew that despite her physical suffering, she would be held in Spirit with grace.

Rustee will be deeply missed. These are not just words. Her presence was both comforting and inspirational—a reminder to live life in the most humble, compassionate, and meaningful ways possible.