Is the rule in Chapter 15 of the novel Bud, Not Buddy meant to help Bud survive or thrive throughout the novel?

The rule in Chapter 15 that Bud mentions is "Rule Number 28," which is "Gone=dead" (Curtis 178). In Chapter 15, Bud is having a conversation with Miss Thomas about the little girl's room he is spending the night in. Bud asks Miss Thomas if the little girl would be mad if he stayed in her room and slept in her bed. Miss Thomas responds by telling Bud that he has nothing to worry about because the little girl is "gone." Although Bud is naive about certain subjects, he has learned throughout his life that gone, is a polite way of mentioning that someone is dead. Bud uses this rule in the novel to survive, rather than thrive. It is in Bud's best interest to understand the meaning and connotation of words such as "gone," in order for him to better comprehend certain situations. Also, this rule does not allow Bud to "thrive" and flourish in his life. Understanding that "gone" means "dead" is simply useful information that helps Bud understand particular situations.