In Memory of Thurston “Rusty” Gerald Estes II

Rusty left us on April 16, 2024, at the age of 47 years. Born on November 21, 1976, in Athens, GA, Rusty led a life filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. He touched the lives of many with his kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to family and friends.

Born on November 21, 1976, in Athens, GA, Rusty led a life filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. He touched the lives of many with his kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to family and friends.

Throughout his life, Rusty was known for his artistic ability, his keen eye for detail, and an undeniable sense of style.

Rusty had impeccable penmanship. In his  younger years, he kept scoreboard for the University of Georgia Liz Murphey Collegiate Classic. In later years, he sketched ideas for belt buckles, hats, and sunglasses for companies, as well as tattoos for friends and himself. For special occasions he would create a one-of-a-kind sketch for those he loved.

Rusty loved music. It was always a part of the highs and lows in his life. In his travels, he attended many concerts at some of the coolest venues. He often shared newly discovered music with his friends and family, urging them to check it out. Some of Rusty’s favorites included Hardy, Luke Combs, Cody Jinks, Russ, Chris Stapleton, and Widespread Panic.

Rusty took pride in his appearance. Many would describe him as the best dressed in any room. He enjoyed custom-tailored suits and perfectly polished shoes topped with accessories like bracelets, a watch, and sunglasses from some of his favorite brands.

Professionally, Rusty was known for his master craftsmanship of club fitting and his time spent in the Professional Golf industry, working on the PGA Tour and LIV Tour in addition to many others over the years. He touched the lives (and clubs) of many players.

Rusty’s greatest joy, however, was spending time with his children. They were often seen driving around in one of Rusty’s custom vehicles with the windows down and the music up! He was a loving father who playfully loved to aggravate his boys. They remember him fondly for teaching them the game of golf, playing a game they made up together called “yellow sign, yellow car”, and many trips to the mountains chasing waterfalls.

Rusty is survived by his sons, Anderson William and Daxton Everett, Former Spouse, Marisa M. Estes, Step-Father, Ricky Hopkins, Step Mother, Diane Estes, Sister, Ashley H. Stough (Josh), Niece, Perri Stough, Nephew, Ames Stough, Grandmother, Betty Coile, Aunts and Uncles and several cousins. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Rusty was preceded in death by his Mother, Brenda Gaye Hopkins and Father, Thurston “Pinky” Gerald Estes, who were sources of love, guidance, and inspiration throughout his life.

A private service will be held for the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating locally to Nuci’s Space in support of their mission to help those battling mental health issues.

As we mourn the loss of Rusty, let us remember the joy he brought into our lives and the legacy he leaves behind. May his soul rest in peace.

In tribute to the life and generous nature of Rusty Estes, please consider donating to Nuçi's Space. We will honor Rusty's legacy and continue our mission to prevent suicide and promote mental health advocacy.

Our mission is to prevent suicide. With a focus on musicians, Nuçi’s Space advocates for and helps alleviate the suffering of those living with a brain illness and fights to end the stigma of mental illness.

If you live in the vicinity of Athens, GA, our Survivors of Suicide support group meets at Nuçi’s Space on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm. Please email sos@nuci.org or call (706) 227-1515 for more information.

For support groups outside of Athens, please visithttps://afsp.org/find-a-support-group

www.nuci.org