Kayla and Morgan Kushner Raleigh, NC - Kayla Kushner, age 25, and Morgan Kushner, age 25, of Raleigh, NC, entered the world together on a cold, icy day in February of 1996. They were beloved daughters, granddaughters, nieces, and friends. They left the world as they entered it, together, on Sunday, January 9, 2022. Their loss leaves a void in the lives of their parents, family members, loved ones, and friends, but all who loved them know they left the world far more beautiful than they found it.
Morgan and Kayla shared the unique bond of twin sisters and best friends, supporting one another as they grew into passionate, individual women. As children, they were homeschooled by their mother, Mary, as they grew up in their hometown of Advance, NC. At that time in their lives, they were blessed to have faithful friends in the Ruble girls and Hailey Gough. They attended high school at Westchester Country Day School in High Point, NC, where they were competitive volleyball players and built amazing relationships with a close-knit group of friends. Their lives changed for the better when Lea Rasenberger, a German exchange student, lived with the Kushners for a year. She became a sister to them and has remained a part of the family ever since. In their final year of high school, Morgan won the Senior Speech Award for her composition and presentation about being twins, a unit yet individuals.
Morgan and Kayla graduated with the Class of 2019 from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC. Morgan studied Public Relations, Interpersonal Communication, and Professional Writing. Kayla studied Mass Communication, Public Relations, Photography, and Professional Writing. Kayla was awarded the Cleta Johnson Award for her photograph "Affixed #3," on twin identity, about which she wrote, "Like other twins, I have faced a lifetime of struggle in creating an identity that is my own. Whether the two are together in physical presence or simply reminded of one another through their own reflection, they are affixed." During their college years, Hannah Tryon Rexrode and Austin Dean Lynn became treasured friends to both girls, the greatest gifts from their time at Meredith.
Following college, Kayla worked as a digital marketing consultant and photographer for several Raleigh-area businesses and individuals, while Morgan advised clients on social media, communications, and digital marketing. They planned to open a marketing and media consulting business together in the near future.
Kayla and Morgan were animal lovers, caring deeply for numerous pets throughout their lives and serving as volunteers in shelters. Morgan's rescue dog, Finch, and their parakeet, Piper, served as loyal companions to them both.
The diversity of Morgan and Kayla's common interests tells the story of two women with voracious appetites to know the world: concerts, travel, photography, scary movies, coffee shops, thrift stores, and spending time with a multitude of special friends.
Morgan will be remembered for her gentle soul and loving heart. She moved through life with a graceful presence, leaving beauty and peace in her wake. She saw the good in everyone she met and always wanted to make others happy. Calm and quiet, she was an excellent listener with a huge heart. Life with Morgan was full of smiles and laughter.
Kayla will be remembered for her fierce loyalty and determined spirit. She lived to see the beauty in the mundane and to capture it with her camera. Kayla's empathy and intuition made her the most intentional friend. Selfless and compassionate, she always put the needs of others before her own. A growing activist, Kayla was never afraid to fight for the causes or people she held dear.
As individuals, Morgan and Kayla could each move mountains, but, together, they were a special force that created a more beautiful, kind world for everyone they knew and every heart they touched. They loved their family deeply and were blessed to have not only parents, but grandparents, aunts, and uncles who helped shape the amazing women they became.
Kayla and Morgan are survived by their devoted parents, Keith and Mary Kushner of Tampa, FL; grandmother, Harriet Rhyne of Mount Pleasant, SC; grandfather, John R. Kushner of Cleveland, SC; adopted grandmother, JoAnn Ruby of Oldsmar, FL; and numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends, including Kayla's loving boyfriend, Brennan Callen, of Raleigh, NC. They were predeceased by their grandfather, Charles Rhyne, Sr., grandmother, Barbara Kushner, and adopted grandfather, Richard Ruby. With a quiet but solid faith, their family knows they are now in the gentle care of their Savior and surrounded by other loved ones. The family cherishes the love, support, and prayers from their home church, River Oaks Community Church of Clemmons, NC, including its staff, members, and missionaries.
it isn't blood that makes you my sister
it's how you understand my heart
as if you carry it
in your body
-Rupi Kaur, The Sun and Her Flowers - a book of poetry gifted to Morgan from Kayla
A private burial service will be held in Mount Pleasant, SC. A celebration of life will be held at a future date in Raleigh, NC. In lieu of flowers, to honor both Kayla and Morgan Kushner, we encourage donations to the following organizations: Designed For Joy / Living Wage for Vulnerable Women - 517 W. Cabarrus St. Suite A, Raleigh, NC 27603 Arts Together - 114 Saint Mary's Street, Raleigh, NC 27605, Saving Grace | Animals for Adoption - 13400 Old Creedmoor Rd., Wake Forest, NC 27587.
Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc. Mt. Pleasant Chapel. A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting www.jhenrystuhr.com. Visit our guestbook at legacy.com/obituaries/charleston

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charleston Post & Courier from Jan. 15 to Jan. 16, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Kayla Kushner

Sponsored by J. Henry Stuhr Mount Pleasant Chapel.

45 Entries

Tracy Timmerman Autry

February 27, 2022

My heart goes out to you both. I am so very sorry for your loss. I will keep you in my prayers.

Elizabeth Turner

February 26, 2022

Keith & Mary,
It breaks my heart to hear of your tragic loss. I pray the Lord will comfort you and fill your hearts with every special memory of your beautiful girls, and for His love and the love of friends and family to carry you through all the days ahead.

Betsy Rowlee Brewer

February 26, 2022

Mary and Keith I am heartbroken for your devastating loss. I'm praying for the Lord to lift you up and give you peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Kurt Wilkie

February 12, 2022

Keith and Mary,

From HS to where we are now, nothing can prepare us for such a loss. My heart aches for you both and your family. Thinking of you and praying for you all to find peace.

Janet Copia

January 30, 2022

Mary and Keith

My heart aches for your horrific loss of your two beautiful girls. I pray for peace and understanding as you go through this time. I am here for you. Much love

Melissa

January 28, 2022

My heart goes out to you all. As a twin who attended MC with her twin, I know that such a bond was unbreakable and the love Kayla and Morgan had for one another transmitted into the love they had for family, friends and the community.

Monika Smith

January 27, 2022

Two Angels returning to heaven together. Say hello to my daughter Denise Charmaine born 24 April 1982 and a fellow angel shy 2 days of 3 months old since 22 July 1982.

Ron and Barb Buczkiewicz

January 23, 2022

Keith and Mary,
We are so very sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughters. May the Lord bring you comfort and love during these difficult times and the days ahead. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ron & Barb Buczkiewicz

Leona Beja

January 23, 2022

So sorry for your loss! My name is Leona Beja.I met Leona Lachman on a online game a few years ago because we had the same name and we really clicked! We became friends. I lost three children at the same time in a fire. I just wanted to reach out to you because I know exactly what you're going through! You may contact me if you would like. I will not pressure you. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!

Dr. Carla S Ross

January 21, 2022

Kayla and Morgan were both bright lights! I had the honor to be their professor and friend. I know my world is not as bright without them. I´m praying for everyone that knew them, love them, and miss them.

Kathy & Mike Rexrode

January 20, 2022

We are so sorry for your loss. We had gotten to know your sweet daughters through Hannah and Stephen. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this very hard time.
Kathy & Mike Rexrode

Wayne Thoren

January 20, 2022

It's with great sorrow that I read about your amazing daughters Keith. Please accept the heartfelt condolences that I send to you and Mary.

Sarah Cerniglia

January 18, 2022

I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of two such wonderful lights. Both young ladies were joys to have in my class at WCDS. They will always hold a special place in my heart.

Linda Braun

January 18, 2022

Keith and Mary
You are in my thoughts and prayers during this unimaginable time.

Cherrelyn Napue

January 18, 2022

To the family,

It isn't easy to know what to say. There are no "right words." Please know we are praying for all who are hurting, those feeling numb, and all still in disbelief. Although Morgan and Kalya's life was so short, they made an impact in the world. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have worked with Mogan over these past several months at Arts Together. She is greatly missed.

Jerry Tugwell

January 18, 2022

Dear Keith and Mary: Donna and I are so very sorry for your loss. I can still see all our girls; Kayla, Morgan and Julie in your kitchen in High Point eating and laughing. Rest in Peace, Kayla and Morgan.
We love you and are praying for you.
Jerry and Donna Tugwell
Asheboro, N.C.

Beatrice Keller

January 18, 2022

My husband and I were moved by the loss and sheer tragedy of Kayla and Morgan's deaths while reading their obituary. We had never had the pleasure of knowing them but were impressed with their community spirit and accomplishments. Then my first cousin, Betty Jean, called and explained that they were my first cousins twice removed. This connection made their loss more poignant, and my love and thoughts are with the family, some of whom I've met. Please accept my profound condolences and sympathy.
Love,
Marie-Béatrice Rhyne Keller (Dwight Rhyne's daughter)

John Kruelle

January 18, 2022

While I cannot begin to comprehend the depth of your loss, The Lord is merciful and mighty. May He bring you comfort and much love to you both in the days ahead and to eternal life. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Lord have mercy.

Marc Reid

January 18, 2022

Keith, I am so very sorry for your loss and cannot imagine the pain you and family are feeling. You and yours will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Lee Ann Bethel

January 18, 2022

As a fellow WCDS and MC parent, my heart breaks for you, Mary and Keith, and for all family and friends grieving this loss. Thinking of you and lifting you up in prayer.

Dennis and Pamela Reed

January 17, 2022

To our dear "Sweet Pea" Harriet, precious Mary and Husband Keith, and our "Crazy" Charles, we send our deepest sympathy and no words can express how empty our hearts are. We do know Chuck is in Heaven holding his precious baby girls....Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Denny and Pam

Bryan & Darlene Nye

January 17, 2022

God bless this wonderful family and help them heal during this difficult time. Our continued prayers are with you.

Julian Blumenthal

January 17, 2022

My deepest condolence on this tragedy. May there be people who can support in this time of deep grief.

Michele Hendrix

January 17, 2022

Words can't offer you what you need right now. I remember so many good times with the girls. Holding your hand and offering love to you both, Mary and Keith.

Jenny Gambino

January 17, 2022

Keith and Mary,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your beautiful daughters. Wishing you and your family peace and comfort not only today but the hard days ahead as you grieve.
Blessed are those that mourn, for they shall be comforted - Matthew 5:4
In Sympathy,

Toni Bazdor

January 17, 2022

Keith and Mary,

You are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you and your family and be strong for each other as you grieve over your beautiful daughters.

Juan Nieves

January 17, 2022

I don't even have the words please know that Kayla & Morgan, as well as your family are in our prayers. We will pray that God receives your girls with open arms and provides you strength and God's mercy to help you thru this difficult time.

Susan Cujas

January 17, 2022

Amy, Missy and I are so honored and blessed to have such great memories of our time with Kayla and Morgan. I pray the Lord brings you and your family strength and peace. We send our daily prayer and love to all.

Aunt Dorothy Anne, Anne & David Gallimore

January 17, 2022

Sending our deepest condolences and much love to the family. Prayers for comfort and peace.

Athan Manuel

January 17, 2022

Everlasting be the memory of both Morgan and Kayla, two outstanding young women.

Brian Noviskis

January 17, 2022

Dear Keith and Mary,
My deepest condolences to you and your family on the tragic loss of your beautiful daughters. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Brian Noviskis
VP Human Resources
Signode

Gayle Diamond, née Horvitz

January 17, 2022

I am so very sorry to hear of this unimaginable tragedy. I am holding the whole family in my heart.

Monica Lachman

January 17, 2022

Thank you for sharing their memories and the impact they made on this world, it was truly beautiful. My sincerest condolences to you and your family.

Shannon and Robin McCarson

January 16, 2022

Keith and Mary,
We are completely heartbroken to hear of the passing of Kayla and Morgan! We enjoyed watching them grow into beautiful young ladies in the neighborhood years ago. It sounds like they have made a great impact on so many and will be missed immeasurably. Your family and their friends will be in our thoughts and prayers!

Jonathan and Sami Butler

January 16, 2022

We are heartbroken for you all. Please accept our deepest sympathies during this unimaginable time. Our prayers will be with you.

Lewis McCrain

January 16, 2022

I won't pretend to know what you are going through, but I will offer my most sincere thoughts and prayers for all of the family.

Sue and Tom Fisher

January 16, 2022

Keith and Mary and family. Our prayers are with you on the loss of your daughters. Thank you for sharing the beautiful memories of their life.

Sara Dyson

January 16, 2022

Two beautiful souls in the living arms of their father. Mary my heart hurts for your loss. They loved big and were very special friends to us.

Christine Kushner

January 16, 2022

May their memories be eternal. Our hearts are with you, dear ones.

Debbie Oakley

January 16, 2022

Even I didnt Know your girls. But my HEART goes out to you both. May they rest in peace. All my love prayers and thoughts go out to your family.

Ruth Terrell

January 16, 2022

Thank you for sharing the giving lives of these sisters. Without knowing them personally I feel privileged to learn something of their contributions through the lovely obituary tribute in the N&O. Our world is better for the love that they shared and the joy they displayed.

Mrs.Jenkins

January 16, 2022

I´m so sorry for your loss of two beautiful daughters!!! I pray that God gives you the strength to keep going. Hold on to the precious memories.

Uncle Craig

January 16, 2022

I´m so very sorry. That´s all I want to say right now. In Christ. Love Craig

Lisa Miller

January 16, 2022

Mary, I am sure you may not remember me but my kids, McKenzie and Caleb Miller took Karate with Kayla and Morgan in Clemmons. I am heartbroken to hear of your loss. Please know I am praying for you and your husband that you now and in the days ahead that God will comfort you as only He can. Kayla and Morgan were such special young ladies, even as little girls you could see the goodness in them

Anne Stover

January 15, 2022

I am so very sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughters, nieces, grand daughters, and friends.

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