Elene McGee Busch, 81, of Holden Beach, NC, passed away on Friday, July 18, 2025. Born in Greenville, South Carolina, and raised in Fountain Inn, she was the cherished daughter of Carolyn Childress and Edwin McGee.

Elene was married to her best friend and soulmate, Henry Rudolf Busch, Jr. (d. 2015), for 50 wonderful years. Together, they built a legacy of love, faith, laughter, travel, and a spirit of community that touched everyone around them.

A lifelong educator, Elene devoted her career to teaching math and science to middle and high school students in Delaware, Virginia, and North Carolina. Her deep-rooted passion for mentoring young people extended far beyond the classroom. In retirement, she and Henry operated Fantasy Isle Ice Cream and Mini-Golf, continuing their tradition of nurturing and guiding youth through summer employment, friendship and example.

Elene’s heart was grounded in service—especially to those in underserved communities. Whether helping to resettle refugee families, supporting educational efforts across the globe, delivering food and emotional support to the suffering, picking up litter on her beloved beach or advocating for conservation efforts, she gave selflessly, always striving to brighten the lives of others.

Energetic and spirited, Elene embraced every moment with joy. She was an active member of the Holden Beach Chapel, serving on multiple committees and organizations, singing in the choir, and playing handbells. She was also an enthusiastic golfer and bridge player, enjoying several games a week with treasured friends. Her commitment to faith, friends, fellowship and fun never wavered.

Elene was a devoted mother, sister, aunt, and friend. She is survived by her son Mike and his wife Debbie of Dacula, GA; her daughter Jan of Oakland, CA; and her beloved grandchildren: Alexis, Connor, and Ainsley Gillikin, and Riley and Peyton Busch. She also leaves behind her sister Margaret Campbell of Elberton, GA, as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends around the world whom she considered family.

Her warmth, wisdom, and boundless generosity will be deeply missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire all who knew her.

A celebration of life service will be conduted on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at 11:00AM in the Holden Beach Chapel.  A reception will be held following the service.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Holden Beach Chapel, 107 Rothschild St., Holden Beach, NC, 28462 or to the charity of your choice.