William Russell “Rusty” Hyneman was born on July 25, 1964, in Kansas City, Missouri to parents John and Jeanne Cox Hyneman. He and his brother Kevin were raised in the Memphis area and attended Southaven High School and Memphis State University.

Rusty had an infectious energy, and was always entertaining and made sure everyone around him had a good time as well. Whatever he did, he did it 110%. Rusty was an advanced pilot with over 20 type ratings. He found joy in flying planes, jumping out of planes, and occasionally rolling his planes. He enjoyed all things physical: football, scuba diving, pole vaulting, snow skiing, obstacle races, water skiing, cycling, weight training, golfing, surfing, kickball, and more. Rusty enjoyed fishing but not catching with his brother, Kevin.

He built his first home at the age of 18, and evolved into a prolific real estate developer and businessman of multiple industries. He was a Renaissance man. He was a gourmand and amateur sommelier. Rusty was a collector of Converse, always looking dapper styled by his wife, Caresse, whom he survives.

Other survivors include his daughters, Amanda (John) Strawn and Rachel Hyneman; grandsons: John Russell Strawn, James Brady Strawn, & Hudson Hyneman; his loving parents, John and Jeanne Cox Hyneman; brother Kevin (Cindy) Hyneman; his nieces, Bailey and Samantha Hyneman; and his uncle, Milton (Becky) Cox.

A private family service was held on December 10th at Memorial Park Funeral Home in Memphis, Tennessee. A Celebration of Rusty’s Life will be held in the summer of 2021.The Scoop was saddened to learn of Rusty’s passing. We send our warmest condolences to the Hyneman Family.