Jean Elizabeth (Wertman) Renn
June 28, 1925 - August 16, 2021
Jean Elizabeth (Wertman) Renn, age 96, of Newark. DE, passed away on Monday, August 16, 2021 with her children by her side.
Born in Shamokin, PA on June 28, 1925, she was a daughter of the late William G. and Elizabeth (Steinhart) Wertman. Jean moved to Newark in 1955 with her husband, where they raised their three children.
An accomplished musician, she was the organist at Ogletown Baptist Church for 54 years and prior to that, she was the organist at Calvary Baptist Church, both in Newark, and was the pianist at First Baptist Church, Shamokin, PA. Jean began her service at the age of 15. She also played for radio broadcasts, special speakers in and around Newark and hundreds of weddings. In her younger years, Jean taught private piano lessons and she taught kindergarten at the Old Oak School on Dallam Road in Newark.
She was married to Rev. Robert L. Renn for 59 years. Jean was a woman of God, a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great great-grandmother. She had a personal relationship with each grandchild and prayed daily for each one by name. Jean touched many lives through the years because she always made herself available to those who needed her. And, she was always “ready to go” at a moment’s notice. She never turned down a shopping trip or a ride to Shamokin or Lancaster.
In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Rev. Robert L. “Bob” Renn and her brothers, William, Harold, John, and David Wertman. She is survived by her children, Robert A. Renn (Grace), Marcia Rotenberry Paxton (David), and Sandra Renn; grandchildren, Laurie Smith (Chris), Rob Rotenberry (Melissa), Rhonda Silvestri (Darren), and Rob Renn (Sigrid); 11 great-grandchildren, Marcie Smith Haber (Ben), Julianne Crossland (Tyler), Don Smith (Anna), Lonnie Smith, Lauribeth Smith, Sarah Rotenberry Fleetwood (Alex), Melissa Rotenberry (Brandon Harris), Steven Silvestri, Josh Silvestri, Noah Renn, and Daniel Renn; and two great-great-grandchildren, Mikayla Harris and Max Harris.
All services will be held privately.
The family would like to offer many thanks to those who have offered their condolences and described Jean as a sweet, loving, empathetic, hardworking and humble lady as described in Proverbs 31. She was fiercely loyal to her family and wanted nothing more in life than to spend time with each of them. Jean was loved deeply and will be missed desperately, but we have comfort in knowing that she is with her Savior and her husband and we will see them soon. Rest in heavenly peace, Mother. We love you and we thank you.
Bonnie and John Burkert
A wonderful aunt who always made me feel special and loved. Aunt Jean was the family historian who knew every name and face in every picture and had the greatest stories. She was always happy to see us, always asked about everyone, and was so welcoming when we visited, which unfortunately was mostly on the phone lately because of Covid. We will miss her so much. I’m sure she got quite a welcome in Heaven.
Wayne Nelson
Carla and I have known Mrs Renn for many years and always found her to be a very kind and sweet lady of a very high character. She lived her life as an example of her faith. She loved her family and was always interested in how your family was doing as well. Our deepest condolences to the extended family.
Mary Taylor
Dear Bob, Grace and family,
Truly a beautiful soul. Your mom is now surrounded by her loved ones, including your dad and Jesus Christ. What an amazing legacy she has left on Earth.
My love and condolences,
Mary Taylor
Hill Brothers
We were deeply saddened to hear of Mrs. Renn’s passing. All of us remember her as a warm and friendly member of our childhood. Our sincerest condolences to the Family.
Ann Landry
What an amazing person and life! She touched so many lives always pointing the to the Lord and sacrificing herself for the good of others. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Her memory lives on in our hearts. We pray for you all at this time. Love, Ann
Kelly Morris
I’m so glad to have known Jean. I loved her attitude and spunk! She was truly a faithful servant of God. My deepest condolences to your entire family.
Catherine Worsley
Dear Sandy and Family,
I’m sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. Praying for God’s strength to uphold you in the coming months.
With Hearfelt Sympathy – Cathy Worsley from Praise Assembly
kathy Alphin
Jean you were like a mother to me. I am so glad to have been part of your life and was always welcomed with open arms. We had many laughs. You were always encouraging, loving, supporting and always ready to share your faith. I will greatly miss you and know I will see you again. You truly are one of a kind and an inspiration to behold. I will always love you.
Darcy Burbage
Dear Rhonda, Mr. Renn & family,
I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your mom and grandmom, such a great women who passed her love of God and faith to all of you.
Sending prayers and virtual hugs,
Darcy, John & Roak
John Frazer
Bob & Renn family,
I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Cherish the memories.
Palms 139 vs 16
Gail Hamilton Berry
Sandy and Family
Sorry for the loss of your Mother she was such a wonderful person I love talking with her in Cracker Barrel the last time I saw her, thoughts and Prayers are with you.
Donna Krom
I was sadden hear of Jean’s passing. She was a lovely lady with whom I enjoyed talking to. My condolences to her family.