Kerry Frank Bush, 82, of Galveston, Texas embarked on his final voyage on Friday, April 12, 2024, from Jennie Sealy Hospital in Galveston, Texas. Kerry was born on July 28, 1941, on the serene coastal key of Bonacca, Guanaja Bay Island, Honduras, to Edwin Theophilus Bush and Maud Elizabeth Tatum Bush. He was their last surviving child.

A testament to the rich heritage of a family deeply rooted in the rhythms of island life, his father, Edwin, a skilled carpenter and boat builder, provided for their large family, while his mother, Maud, lovingly cared for their eleven children and three grandchildren-Matilda, Junie and Carolina. Kerry, the second youngest of his siblings, grew up spending his days going to school and sailing the boat his father meticulously built by hand, journeying between their home on the key, Bonacca, and the family farm on the island, Guanaja, to harvest vegetables for his mother to cook for the family. Kerry went on to unload freight and delivered supplies to stores around the island, gaining him the nickname "Power" as he carried extremely heavy boxes. As work became sparse around the island, Kerry decided to make a leap of faith and relocate to Brownsville, Texas to work on shrimp boats.

Destiny would introduce him to his beloved Fermina, who worked in the office of Inter-American Foods, where the shrimp boats would dock and unload. After dating for four years they were married in June of 1968 in Brownsville Texas. Together, they embarked on a marriage of 55 years.

Late summer of 1968, Kerry and Fermina anchored their lives in Galveston, Texas, where they welcomed the joyous arrival of their precious daughter, Emily, in 1969. Together, they created a haven of love and laughter, nurturing a family bound by shared dreams and unwavering support. When Fermina would get in a bad mood Kerry would joke with her until she laughed and take her mind off of things. He always woke her in the mornings saying "Good Morning Sunshine!"—Kerry always woke up happy. He would take his daughter Emily fishing, build elaborate tents for her to play in, dance with her for hours, cook her favorite Caribbean meals (conch stew and cassava cake) and even play Barbie's with her--anything to make her smile.

Kerry's career at sea began with humble beginnings, working on shrimp boats from 1962 to 1964. He later transitioned to sailing on ships as a Merchant Marine, where his dedication and hard work propelled him from a seaman to a respected Boatswain and ship steering Quartermaster. During the Vietnam War his ships would bring supplies to the U.S. Military in enemy territory. His passion for the ocean and his unwavering commitment to his craft took him on voyages across the globe, navigating container ships and tankers with skill and expertise through the ports of six continents and the Panama Canal as well as sailing four of the five oceans. Kerry was a member of the National Maritime Union (NMU) for 43 years. His retirement marked the culmination of a lifelong journey marked by hard work, dedication, and a passion for exploration.

Kerry was a proud member of the Galveston Elks Lodge #126 where he regularly enjoyed playing Texas Hold 'Em with his fellow Elks. He loved calling his island friends and family to talk and catch up, dancing to Latin and Caribbean music, listening to Country and Western Music and especially cooking for hours to "step up" his meals. He enjoyed a special sailing trip with his nephew, Ed Bush, sailing on the Low Keys for the Harvest Moon Regatta. He always had a happy, witty disposition and loved to talk, joke around and meet new friends. He was the life of the party and knew how to put a positive, fun spin on life.

Kerry Frank Bush leaves behind a legacy of love that will endure through those he knew and loved. He is survived by his beloved wife, Fermina, his cherished daughter, Emily, and a host of family and friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. Though he may have set sail on his final journey, his spirit will continue to guide us, with unending wit, wisdom and love.

Kerry is preceded in death by his parents, Edwin Theophilus Bush and Maud Elizabeth Tatum Bush; His eight brothers, Robert Bush, Ward Bush, James "Allie" Bush, Hardy Bush, Buster Bush, Arnox Bush, Ramsey Bush and O'Neil Bush; his two sisters, Nella Bush, and Esmeralda "Esmie" Bush.

Fair winds and following seas, dear Kerry. May you find eternal peace in the embrace of the Lord you loved so dearly.

Funeral services are 11:00am Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Carnes Brothers Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 9:00am. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Galveston.