Muriel "Rusty" Mangum Gersper

Muriel “Rusty” Mangum Gersper, age 70, of New Smyrna Beach, died Wednesday, May 17, 2017, at home with her beloved husband, John, by her side, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in New Smyrna Beach, Rusty moved to Columbus, Ohio in 1967 and worked as a real estate exam proctor for the state of Ohio until she retired and returned to New Smyrna Beach in 2000. She was a member of Coronado Community United Methodist Church, where she volunteered at CorMeth Boutique. She also belonged to the Garden Club, the Beachettes walking group, and was a former Vice-President of the Friends of Pets. Neighbors in her Sugar Mill Brae Burn Community will tell you she was caretaker to them, their snowbird homes, and more than a few stray animals as well.

Rusty was fond of animals, plants, shoes and purses but her greatest joy was lavishing love on her family and friends. Her all-encompassing heart truly never knew a stranger and her contagious laugh will be sorely missed.

Left to mourn her loss are her husband of 45 years, John; son, John (Julia) Gersper, Jr. of Washington, WV; daughters, Cindy Gersper and Edythe Strawser, both of Columbus, OH; brother, Carlton “Hudgie”(Cler) Hudgins of New Smyrna Beach; sister, Linda Melvin of New Smyrna Beach; niece, Vanessa Nowlin; nephew, Daniel Melvin; grandchildren, Nicholas, Emily, and Madison; lifetime best friend, Betty Ann Tucker; and, many others whose lives she touched. She was preceded in death by her son, Michael Gersper.

Reverend Laura Berg will officiate a memorial service at 11:00AM on Wednesday, May 31 at Coronado Community United Methodist Church, with a reception to follow in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central & Northern Florida, 1020 N. Orlando Avenue, Suite 100, Maitland, FL 32751.

The family wishes to thank all those who have embraced us throughout this difficult journey. It is obvious how much Rusty was cherished by all who knew her.

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