Michael Russell "Rusty" Lane

Michael Russell “Rusty” Lane, 56, of Baker County, GA, passed away November 4, 2025 at his home, surrounded by his girls. A Memorial Service will be held Friday, November 7, 2025 at 11:00 am at Mathews Funeral Home. Pastor David Wolfe will officiate. Honors will be provided by The Albany Fire Department Honor Guard.

Rusty was born on October 8, 1969, in Albany, Georgia. He grew up in Albany before settling permanently in his home in Baker County in 1999 with his family. Rusty attended Albany High School. Rusty was 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason, a member of Triangle Lodge # 708 F&AM and was initiated in The Hasan Shriners in 1992.

Rusty and Wendy’s love story began in 1985, and on July 7, 1989, the two became one. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised two wonderful daughters, Amber and Kristen. Rusty worked tirelessly to provide for his family and wore many hats throughout his career. He managed the Hampton Inn for several years before discovering his true calling as a firefighter. In 2000, he joined the Albany Fire Department, where he devoted 24 years of service and retired as Captain in January of 2024.

Rusty also shared a strong entrepreneurial spirit with his father, Robert Lane. Together, they opened Bubba’s Burgers on the avenues in Albany—a local spot that thrived for several years. Their partnership continued through various ventures, including A1 Wrecker Service, A1 Glass, Bubba’s Towing, and Robert Lane Enterprises, where Rusty played an active role when he wasn’t at the fire department.

Rusty was a cherished son, a devoted husband, an amazing father, and a loyal friend to many—but above all, he was an irreplaceable Pawpaw. His two greatest joys were his grandchildren, Ella and Henry. Pawpaw and Ella were true partners in crime—whether it was sneaking ice cream before dinner or granting her every wish, she could always count on him. Henry was the son he never had, and Rusty eagerly looked forward to all the adventures they would share. If you knew Rusty, you knew that those babies were his pride and joy. He picked them up from school every day and never missed a moment of being the best Pawpaw there ever was.

Rusty found peace and joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting deer on his land, recently celebrated bagging his first turkey, and enjoyed fishing trips with his son-in-law, J.D. Music was another passion—Dave Matthews Band was his favorite, though his taste spanned many genres. Music trivia was never a challenge with Rusty on your team. He cherished his time outside, whether spending it with his grandkids or “piddling” in the yard. Saturdays were for Florida State football, Sundays for NASCAR—and when it came to dessert, few knew that Rusty baked one of the best pound cakes you could ever taste, at least according to his family.

Rusty is deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his mother, Janice Boyer of Albany, GA, and his father, Robert Lane of Albany, GA; his wife, Wanda (Wendy) Lane of Newton, GA; his two daughters, Amber Lane of Albany, GA, and Kristen Johnson (J.D.) of Newton, GA; his grandchildren, Ella and Henry Johnson; his brother, Chris Boyer of Albany, GA; his brother in law Jamie Batten (Sonya); his nieces and nephews, Casie (Levi), Corey (Colee), and Morgan (Steven), Rebecca (Melvin), Madison; and many cousins and dear friends who loved Rusty deeply.

“Cause life is short but sweet for certain” - Dave Matthews

The family will receive friends Friday from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at Mathews Funeral Home.

Flowers are welcome, but those desiring may make memorials in memory of Rusty to Shriners Hospitals For Children c/o The Hasan Transportation Fund, 1822 Palmyra Rd., Albany, GA, 31701.