Obituaries

2 Corinthians 5:8 KJV

“we are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.”

Isaac Pusha was born on November 28, 1950, to the late Mr. Willie & Mrs. Annabelle Pusha. Isaac's early education was in the public school system of Charleston County. He was raised under the tutelage of his grandmother Rebecca James, whom he called Mama, and his eldest sister Shirley Brown who was instrumental in providing care while his parents were working. As a youth Isaac grew up in the family home that included extended family members under the same roof but living in separate units. Isaac and his immediate family moved to Deas Hill in North Charleston, SC. Isaac was prodigious in following instructions distinctly from an early age, which was demonstrated by his actions of taking the bus from North Charleston to Downtown to visit his family members.

Isaac was always protective and caring towards his family. At a young age Isaac spoke with his parents about relocating with his grandmother after she was living alone. After his parents approved his request, he moved in with Mama. Isaac would get up and walked with her to work at 4:00AM every morning to make sure she arrived safely. He would then return home to get ready for school.

Isaac was always inquisitive and he loved learning, exploring and visiting the library and museum. At the age of 17, he joined Job Corps to venture out on his own. Isaac’s strong commitment to family continued to be evident even while participating in Job Corps, at which time he located his aunt, Rosalie Gadsden - who recently moved to New Jersey. Shortly after graduating from Job Corps, Isaac began his naval career.

Retired Navy Chief Warrant Officer Isaac Pusha (CW04) embarked on a remarkable naval journey in 1969. He quickly distinguished himself as a beacon of professionalism and expertise. As he advanced through the ranks, his technical skills became a cornerstone of naval operations. Whether navigating the intricacies of advanced systems or troubleshooting under pressure, Isaac Pusha was a master of his craft. He often expounded about his experiences being the only black machinist and breaking bearers in his field at the time. He was also a race relation facilitator charged to negotiate changes for sailors. He was a stalwart guardian of the seas who dedicated an illustrious 30 years in service to our nation. He left a lasting mark on the hearts of those who had the privilege to know and serve alongside him.

While enlisted he received the Navy Commendation Medal (5); Navy and Maine Corps Achievement Medal (2); Joint Meritorious Unit Award; Meritorious Unit Commendation; Navy "E" Award (5); Good Conduct Medal (5); Navy Expeditionary Medal (2); National Defense Service Medal with one Bronze Star; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; Southwest Asia Service Medal with one Bronze Star; Humanitarian Service Medal (3); Sea Service Deportment Ribbon (6); Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon (3); Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia); Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait); Letter of Commendation by a Flag Officer (6); Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist Designator and Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal in lieu of Second Award.

Mr. Pusha was the son of the late Willie Pusha and Annabell Aiken Pusha, the father of, Terraine Ford, and the late Regina Pusha Freeman, the brother of; Shirley Brown, Vera Pusha, Beverly Thomas (James), Connie Dawson, Sheila Brown and Dorothy Pusha, the grandfather of; Takara Teague, Quinetra Gathers, Vashti Gathers and Allen Ford II. The Home Going Service will take place on Monday, December 18, 2023, 10:00 AM at The Royal Missionary Baptist Church Life Center. He will be laid to rest in Beaufort National Cemetery. The Wake Service will take place on Sunday, December 17, 2023 at the funeral home from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM