William "Bill" Rushford, of Livonia, a beloved son, father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 23, 2026.  He was 51 years old.

Bill was born on July 24, 1974, at Providence Hospital in Southfield, to Robert Rushford and Margaret MacDonald.  Raised in the Metro Detroit area, he attended Fisher Elementary School, where his love of sports and teamwork began. As a young boy, he was active in soccer, t-ball, basketball, and football—always happiest when surrounded by teammates and friends. Some of his most cherished childhood memories were formed on the field and court, coached not only by his father but later alongside him, creating a special three-generation bond that his family holds dear.

Bill continued his education at Pierce Middle School and went on to graduate from Detroit Catholic Central High School in 1992. There, his talents extended beyond athletics—he was a proud member and leader of the marching band, serving as its president. A gifted and passionate musician, Bill could pick up a trombone and bring music to life with ease.

He attended Eastern Michigan University, where he earned his bachelor's degree and continued his involvement in marching band. Bill was known in his school years as outgoing, driven, and deeply connected to those around him—a natural friend to many.

Bill devoted his professional life to helping others as an occupational therapist. He had a deep compassion for those who were struggling, especially individuals who felt overlooked or underserved. His work was more than a career—it was a calling. Whether assisting patients recovering from injuries or advocating for those in difficult circumstances, Bill gave of himself wholeheartedly. He believed deeply that no one should feel alone in their hardship, and he lived that belief through his actions every day.

Outside of his profession, Bill lived life with energy and passion. He was an avid mountain biker, competing at a semi-professional level in the early 2000s and traveling across Michigan for races. Through the Michigan Mountain Bike Association, he built lasting friendships and found great joy in the sport he loved. He also enjoyed golfing and was a devoted supporter of Detroit City Football Club, rarely missing an opportunity to follow the team.

Bill's generous spirit extended far beyond his personal interests. He volunteered extensively, including with disaster relief efforts through Team Rubicon, often taking time away from work to serve others in times of crisis. Driven by a deep sense of justice and compassion, he even helped initiate grassroots efforts to assist those in need within the Detroit community, including work addressing urban blight. His desire to help was unwavering—he simply wanted to make life better for others.

To his family, Bill was so much more than his accomplishments. He was a kind soul—gentle, thoughtful, and fiercely caring. He was the type of person who would go out of his way to lift someone up, whether that meant mentoring a young person in need, driving kids to practice, or simply being present when someone needed support. His love for others was quiet but powerful, and it left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

While Bill faced personal challenges throughout his life, he met them with courage, and through it all, his compassion for others never wavered. His life is a reminder of the strength it takes to care deeply in a complicated world.

Bill leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory, along with many friends whose lives were made better by knowing him.

Surviving Bill are his two cherished children, Zachary and Abigail Rushford; his loving parents, Robert Rushford and Margaret MacDonald; his devoted sister, Meredith (Daniel) Swaine; nieces, Karly and Molly Swaine, and Grace Rushford; and his former wife, Michelle Rushford.  Sadly, Bill was preceded in death by his brother, Kevin, on November 21, 2023.

Family and friends may gather at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home in downtown Farmington on Monday, March 30th.  Visitation is planned from 2-7 pm, and a remembrance ceremony will commence at 7:00 pm. View the ceremony by clicking HERE .

In lieu of flowers, contributions are kindly suggested to N.A.M.I. Metro (National Alliance on Mental Illness), Michigan Mountain Bike Association , or Team Rubicon.

Bill will be remembered for his kindness, his generosity, and the way he made others feel seen, valued, and cared for.