Renaissance Funeral Home and Crematory Obituaries

Welcoming You to Renaissance Funeral Home and Crematory

Renaissance Funeral Home and Crematory, located at 7615 Six Forks Road, Raleigh, NC, 27615, is a trusted and compassionate funeral home that has been serving the Raleigh community for years. Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional care and support to families during their most difficult times. In this article, we will delve into the services, amenities, and values that set us apart from other funeral homes in the area.

A Legacy of Compassionate Care

At Renaissance Funeral Home and Crematory, we understand that losing a loved one is never easy. That's why we strive to provide a warm and welcoming environment where families can feel comfortable and supported. Our staff is comprised of experienced funeral directors, counselors, and support staff who are dedicated to helping families navigate the funeral planning process with dignity and respect.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Maureen Ilonka Schandert - November 08, 1955 - April 08, 2020

Departed: 04/08/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Obituary is forthcoming, Burial service is private. Family will have a public service for friends at a later date.

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John Michael Mamuscia - February 27, 1954 - April 02, 2020

Departed: 04/02/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for John Michael Mamuscia.

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Randy Vestal - July 10, 1950 - April 01, 2020

Departed: 04/01/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Randy Vestal, 69, of Raleigh, NC, died on April 1, 2020 at hospice after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born in Greensboro, NC on July 10, 1950 and is the son of the late, Bill and Ethel Vestal.

Randy grew up in Greensboro, NC and graduated from Grimsley High School. After high school he attended Lenoir Rhyne College and received a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Upon completion, he undertook post graduate studies in medicinal chemistry at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (go Tarheels!). His love of science led him to a full career in the pharmaceutical industry where he joined Burroughs Wellcome as a research chemist, later moving into project planning and regulatory affairs. After Burroughs Wellcome, Randy worked in regulatory consulting with companies in the US and the UK and retired as a Vice President of Pharmaceutical Regulatory Affairs for a biotech company in England.

Randy married Jenny Vestal on December 8, 2000 in Harpenden, England and they lived in the UK for 11 years before relocating to Raleigh, NC in 2010. During this period Randy and Jenny enjoyed frequent travel within Europe, with their favorite destination being Paris, France. They visited Paris at least once a year for 10 years, making sure they always visited their favorite restaurants and had dinner cruises on the River Seine.

Over the years Randy enjoyed a number of hobbies that fed his scientific and technical passions. His lifelong enthusiasm for model railroads extended from early Lionel trains to building a highly complex HO Scale model layout of the Triangle Region in his home. This allowed him to combine his interest in mechanical, electrical and construction engineering with sophisticated electronic circuitry and components. He amassed a collection of over 100 engines and thousands of rail cars. Another longstanding interest was his love of photography including building his own dark rooms early on before moving into digital photography. He particularly enjoyed sports, nature, birds and unique architecture. On the trips to Paris, Randy and Jenny walked miles around the city capturing images of the beauty, character, and history of their favorite city.

Randy also loved cooking, especially on the grill (the Big Green Egg was his favorite) and would often blend his own dry rubs and sauces to perfect the flavor profile. The freezers were always full with huge batches of classics like chili and bolognaise. He loved catering for big holiday meals and get togethers. In addition to cooking, Randy was an avid Mo Town music fan and in his younger years enjoyed rocking out on the drums and was in the marching band at Lenoir-Rhyne.

Like most boys, Randy had a love affair with firetrucks and the fire department. He always had at least one radio scanner tuned in to the local fire service dispatch. When he visited the grocery stores he would often see local firefighters and always engaged them in conversation and thanked them for their service to our community.

He is survived by his wife, Jenny and his three sons, David (Melissa) of Cary, NC, Dennis of Greenville, NC and Doug (Lindsey) of Paris, France and stepsons Daniel (Sara) of Cheshire, England and Gareth (Charlotte) of Hertfordshire, England. He is also survived by his 10 grandchildren, Kyleigh Vestal, Carter Vestal, Chloe Vestal, Blake Vestal, Courtni Chapin, Tyler Chapin, Maddie Vestal, Marley Vestal, Avery Vestal, Liam Vestal.

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Charlie Robert Harper - October 19, 2000 - April 01, 2020

Departed: 04/01/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Charlie was freaking awesome.

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Dolores "Lori" Emily Fox-Sussina - April 06, 1952 - March 31, 2020

Departed: 03/31/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Dolores Emily Fox-Sussina, 67, of Raleigh, NC passed away on March 31, 2020. She was the daughter of Robert and Eleanor Fox. Lori was born April 6, 1952 in New Jersey. She attended public school in Verona, NJ. She went on to graduate from college with a degree in Social Work. Lori worked many years as a social worker and served as a patient account representative before retiring.

She was a member of Vasa Order of America and won a trip to Sweden in 1965 where she danced for the King. She loved talking on the phone with friends and spending time with them. She was a believer in the Lord and attended Crossroads Fellowship.

She was a loving mother, grandmother and friend. Her life will forever be cherished in the lives of her children: Nelson Paxton (Taylor) and April Paxton; grandchild, Raya Paxton; brother, Tom Fox; sister, Carrie Fox-DeFazio; and nieces, nephews as well as cousins.

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Janie Louise Porter - October 30, 1942 - March 28, 2020

Departed: 03/28/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Obituary and service times are forthcoming.

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Robert James Rinn - March 05, 1929 - March 19, 2020

Departed: 03/19/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Robert James Rinn, son of the late John and Mary Rinn was born in Boston, Massachusetts on March 5th, 1929. Died March 19th , 2020, in Raleigh North Carolina after a brief illness.

He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Cathryn Anne Rinn, four daughters, Judy Bodnar, Donna Neville, Marybeth Blades, Kathleen Duguid and their families including eight grandchildren, one great grandchild, numerous nieces and nephews spread across the United States.

As a very young man he served in the Navy during World War II, then remained active in the Naval Reserves, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and his local American Legion. After marrying and having four children he worked full time and spent eight years attending night school. He graduated from Northeastern University with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He remained in that field until retirement. He had a great sense of humor, loved his family, and flying his airplane. He and Cathy traveled to many countries around the world. Bob was very involved in Ham radio, enjoyed listening to opera and National Public Radio.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church in Raleigh, North Carolina at a later date.

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Margaret Mary Keating - December 28, 1945 - March 18, 2020

Departed: 03/18/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Margaret Mary (Brennan) Keating December 28, 1945 — March 18, 2020

Margaret (Margi) Keating of Wake Forest, North Carolina, passed away with her family at her side after a short battle with cancer. Margi was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and advocate for the least among us. She is survived by her husband Denis of 37 years, her children Kathleen and Michael, daughter-in-law Christine, and three grandchildren.

Margi was born in New York City to the late John Raphael Brennan and Catherine Joan (Dolan) Brennan. She graduated from Academy of Mt. St. Ursula High School in the Bronx. Margi earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics from the College of New Rochelle and a Master’s Degree in Mathematics from the University of Michigan.

Margi’s life and faith were the embodiment of Jesus’ call to ”love one another.” As a teenager, Margi volunteered for many different causes. Her favorite project was working with the elderly at St. Patrick’s Home in the Bronx. After graduate school, Margi joined the Peace Corps and was assigned to Malaybalay, Philippines, where she taught math to both high school and college students.

After Margi’s Peace Corps service, she moved to Washington D.C. and worked for the Federal Reserve Board until her retirement in June 2003. It is fitting that Margi and Denis met one another as they prepared and served dinner to the homeless at Christ House in Alexandria, Virginia.

Throughout her single and married life, Margi was always involved in volunteer projects in the Washington, D.C. area, Charlottesville, Virginia, and after she and Denis moved to North Carolina in 2012, she wasted no time in living out her faith. She initiated Sacred Heart Cathedral's "Justice for Immigrants” program to educate the parish about the circumstances confronting migrants and refugees, to encounter them as children of God, and to live in solidarity with them. She studied a wide range of issues related to the ministry. She conducted numerous parish workshops and communicated widely on ways to advocate for immigrants and their families. Margi also tutored immigrants studying for their United States citizenship exam at El Centro para Familias Hispanas. She also volunteered her essential computer skills to support the Sacred Heart Cathedral’s “Door Ministry” which provides financial assistance to families facing housing evictions.

Margi was intensely devoted to her family. She formed lifelong friendships, imparted wisdom and always showed unconditional love. Like her mother, Margi loved the outdoors. She enjoyed camping, hiking, cross-country skiing, bird watching, and long dog walks with her family. She will be greatly missed.

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Patricia Ellen Brush - February 14, 1961 - March 16, 2020

Departed: 03/16/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Patricia Ellen Brush, 59, of Raleigh, NC peacefully passed away on Monday, March 16, 2020 after her battle against Neuroendocrine Carcinoma, which later led to heart disease. She was the daughter of the late Russell and Jane Brush.

Patricia was born February 14th, 1961 in Huntington, NY. She grew up in Greenlawn, NY and attended Syracuse University, where she graduated in 1983 with a Telecommunication Management degree. Most recently, Pat was working for a pharmaceutical company in Research Triangle Park as a bookkeeper.

Pat loved the beach and the outdoors, specifically Raven Rock State Park. She spent her free time taking pictures of wildlife, as well as exploring new parks with her dogs and kids. She enjoyed thrifting and antiquing with her close friends. Pat loved watching her daughters play sports as they grew up, and was thankful for the friendships she made along the way.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Jane Brush.

Her life will forever be cherished in the lives of her children: Dana and Kari Nadler of Raleigh, NC; ex-husband, Jay Nadler of Cary, NC; sister, Joyce Brush Williams of Miramar, FL; sister, Robin (Chuck) Brush Kummelehne of Fort Lauderdale, FL; and brother, Peter Brush of Reno, NV. She is also survived by nieces and nephews, cousins, friends, and her beloved pets.

A memorial service will be held Friday, March 20, 2020 at the Oakwood Cemetery in Raleigh, NC.

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Zach Davis Cox - May 15, 1947 - March 14, 2020

Departed: 03/14/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: ** Due to the current state of affairs, the family would strongly prefer making a memorial donation to the charity of your choice in lieu of flowers. We appreciate you honoring their request at this time.

Zach Davis Cox Jr. born May 15, 1947 passed away Saturday March 14, 2020 at Duke University Hospital after a long battle with end stage liver disease. Zach was the fourth of seven children born to Zach Davis Cox Sr. and Mary Gwin Oliver in Mount Olive, North Carolina.

Zach grew up in Mount Olive graduating from Mount Olive High School in 1965 then joining the U.S. Navy following graduation. Zach trained as a weatherman in the Navy, a passion he followed his whole life. He was trained at Moffat Field in Mountain View, CA and enjoyed the many opportunities living in the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1960's afforded. Later, while deployed to Vietnam he was stationed in Cửa Việt, where he was probably exposed to Agent Orange, a likely cause of his liver disease.

After the war, Zach traveled widely, and according to one story, was recruited to an Israeli kibbutz, though declined when he learned he would have to give up his U.S. citizenship. In the midst of his travels he went to a party at Virginia Ward's house in Wilmington, NC on July 20, 1969, the day of the Apollo 11 moon landing. At this party he met his future wife, Evelyn Vance Wilkins. According to one story, Zach was outside the house staring at the moon with no telescope, and Evelyn was not impressed. Yet, they began to date and were married a year later on August 1, 1970 in a small ceremony at their dearly loved cousin Virginia Ward's house.

After marrying, Zach and Evelyn lived in Silver Springs, MD while Zach worked for the federal Flood Control. They returned to North Carolina after a few years and settled at Evelyn's childhood home in Rose Hill, North Carolina. Zach commuted to Wilmington, NC to complete his undergraduate degree in mathematics funded by the GI Bill while Evelyn taught elementary school at Rose Hill Magnolia Elementary. During this period their first child, Virginia, was born. She was colicky, but they kept her anyway.

After completing his undergraduate degree, Zach and Evelyn moved to Chapel Hill, NC where Zach enrolled in Mathematics graduate program. Some of their dearest friends were made in the multi-unit apartments that made up married student housing" at UNC Chapel Hill.

After completing his Master's Degree in mathematics, Zach and Evelyn moved to Louisburg, NC where Zach taught at Louisburg College and Evelyn Taught at Epsom Elementary. In Louisburg, their second child, Anna, and third child, Robert, were born. Zach moved into the newly created software industry where he spent the rest of his career, and the family moved to Raleigh, NC in 1986.

Zach loved the natural world and was endlessly fascinated by astronomy, physics and mathematics. He was a lifelong learner and encouraged his children to do the same. One of his proudest achievements was completing the American Lung Association Big Ride" from Seattle Washington to Washington, DC in 2004, and valued the close friendships made on that ride. He also regularly rode in the MS150 to raise funds for research into the causes and treatments for Multiple Sclerosis.

Zach is survived by his wife, Evelyn Wilkins Cox, his three children, Virginia (Ginny) Cox Delaney and her partner Joseph Robert Delaney of Hayward, CA; Anna Wilkins Cox and her partner James Anthony Owens of Columbus, OH, and Robert Stephen Cox of Raleigh, NC. He is also survived by his siblings, Gwin Lee Cox of Holly Springs, NC, Elizabeth (Betsy) Ann Cox of Upper Marlboro, MD, Laviece Cox Ward and her spouse Paul McPeak of Holly Springs, NC, James (Jim) Oliver Cox and his spouse Ruthann Nelson of Seattle, WA; Mary Cox Smith and her spouse Baxter Cornelius Smith of Charlottesville, VA; and John Needham Cox and his spouse Clare Johnston Cox.

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Doris Binder Medlin - July 06, 1947 - March 13, 2020

Departed: 03/13/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Doris Binder Medlin, 72, passed away Friday, March 13, 2020 in Raleigh,NC after a nearly 4-year battle with cancer.

She was born in Pigeon, MI, to the late Norman Binder and Elizabeth Brug Binder. She is survived by her son, Andy Medlin and his wife, Jolie of Raleigh; her sister, Jan Ottmer and husband Walt of Lynden, WA; and her grandchildren, Connor and Drew Medlin.

Doris grew up working on her parents' farm in Michigan where she developed a life-long gardening hobby. She graduated from Michigan State University, went on to serve in the Peace Corp in Uganda, and moved to North Carolina in the 1970s. She began her career as a school teacher, one that continued until her retirement in 2005, and spent more than 20 years focused on remedial reading at Wake Forest Elementary.

In addition to gardening, she loved her cats, traveling, attending concerts, and enjoying nature.

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Wendy Lou Cadwell - March 07, 2020 - March 07, 2020

Departed: 03/07/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: July 8, 1956 - March 7, 2020

Wendy Cadwell, age 63, passed away after a long battle with breast cancer on March 7, 2020. She was born on July 8, 1956, in Monroe, Wisconsin to Thurman and Rose Craigo. She was one of five children, the only daughter. Wendy married her husband and love of her life, Bruce, on March 3, 1979. Through the years, their family was blessed with two children and they lived all over Florida and North Carolina.

She lived for her family and was devoted to her husband, children, and grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thurman and Rose Craigo. She is survived by her husband (Bruce); her two children, Nicole (Eric) and Justin (Meredith); her five grandchildren, Addison, Emma, Lily, Rhett, and Samuel; her four brothers, Lee (Karen), Don (Rose), Dave (Kris), and John (Lezlee). The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, to please send donations to: UNC Health Foundation Attn: UNC Lineberger PO Box 1050 Chapel Hill, NC https://unclineberger.org/giving/

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Bobby Nathaniel Williams - July 31, 1932 - March 06, 2020

Departed: 03/06/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: We celebrate the life of Bobby Nathaniel Williams who sadly Left on the Morning Train" in his Raleigh, NC home the morning of March 6, 2020.

Bobby was born in Albany, GA July 31, 1932 to the late Robert Williams and Beaulah Williams. As a small child, Bobby and his family moved north to the Philadelphia area. Bobby was educated in the Philadelphia School system where he graduated from Benjamin Franklin HS in 1949. Soon after graduating, Bobby was called to duty and he served in the United States Army at Fort Bragg where he was a paratrooper.

After returning home from military duty, Bobby joined the workforce where he ultimately settled into a job working for clothing company, Botany 500, which explained all of the nice suits he wore to church. He was a hard worker during the week but during his weekends, Bobby loved spending time with his two brothers, Earl and Perry along with their friends, playing cards and socializing. It was at one of the social events where he met his future wife, Alice. Bobby and Alice fell in love and married July 25, 1992. Bobby was living a happy life surrounded by family and friends.

As Bobby progressed into his golden years, he and Alice decided to move south to Raleigh, NC where he settled into a more relaxed life. Bobby worked part-time for the NC Museum of History to stay active but he mostly enjoyed staying home with Alice and his grandson, Garis, with whom he had a special bond. They watched Westerns, Family Feud, and every episode of Sanford and Son ever made. On Sundays, Bobby really enjoyed attending church services at Lincolnville AME church where from his first day, he felt like family. He especially loved to listen to the Men's Choir. When he became ill and could not attend church on a regular basis, the church family visited him at home often and brought the church to him.

Bobby lived a full life surrounded by the love of his family, friends and church family. He will be missed but we are grateful to God that he no longer has pain.

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Ellen Bryant Clapper - March 07, 1933 - March 06, 2020

Departed: 03/06/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: An obituary and service information is forthcoming.

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Charles Edward Atwell - March 26, 1946 - March 06, 2020

Departed: 03/06/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: ***Due to the State of Emergency declared by the State of North Carolina in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Atwell family is opting to postpone the funeral service. The family will be scheduling the service for a later date. Please check here often for an update.***

Charles Edward Atwell, Jr, 73, of Raleigh, N.C., passed away on Friday, March 6, 2020. Charlie was born on March 26, 1946 in Annapolis, Maryland. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Edward Atwell Sr and Dorothy Walker Atwell.

Charlie spent four years in the Air Force working as a dental hygienist. He retired from IBM where he had worked in administrative and facility management positions. With the early onset of cardiovascular disease, Charlie found few resources for support so he started his own cardiac support groups both in Maryland and in Raleigh that are still in operation today. He became a leader in Mended Hearts for the Washington D.C. chapter. He helped lead the Cardiac Support Group at the Duke Center for Living for a number of years prior to his death. Charlie had the unique ability to make everyone feel special because he genuinely cared about them.

Besides his parents, Charlie was preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Gary Atwell, and his granddaughter, Heather Yvonne Atwell. Survivors include his wife, Nancy Joan Atwell, of Raleigh, North Carolina, children: Robyn Denise Tavel of Falling Waters, West Virginia and Celeste Yvonne Atwell of Marbury, Maryland, six grandchildren and six great- grandchildren and siblings: Robert Atwell of Jacksonville, North Carolina, James Atwell of Annapolis, Maryland, and Elaine O'Connor of Royal Palm Beach, Florida.

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Ryan Joseph Mitchell - June 10, 1980 - March 02, 2020

Departed: 03/02/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview:

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Winifred Rowley McMaster - January 20, 1925 - March 01, 2020

Departed: 03/01/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Winifred Rowley McMaster, 95, of Raleigh, NC died peacefully on Sunday, March 1, 2020 after a brief time in hospice care. She was born in Neodesha, Kansas on January 20, 1925 to Lee and Minnie Rowley.

Win, as her friends knew her, was an active member of First United Methodist Church of Winnsboro, SC where she taught Sunday school and served on various church councils. She was active in her community where she delivered Meals on Wheels and served on the Board of Directors of the Fairfield County Substance Abuse Commission for eight years. She was a past board member and life member of the Fairfield County Historical Society, life member of Friends of the Library, and past board member and member of the Winnsboro Cotillion. Win enjoyed volunteering and gave her time to many organizations such as Fairfield Memorial Hospital, Richland Children's Hospital, and the local Girl Scout and Cub Scout troops. She liked following the stock market and never shied away from a good political debate.

Winifred was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands, John Elder Fowler and Spencer Rice McMaster, Jr.; two brothers, Joseph and Richard; and two sisters, Virginia and Maxine.

She is survived by her children, Susan (Kerry) Fowler-Hindall of Elgin, SC, and Randy (Anna) Fowler of Raleigh, NC; grandchildren, Lauren (Wes) Johnson of Cary, NC, and Bryan Fowler of Raleigh, NC; great-grandchild, Paul Wesley Johnson III (Trip). She is also survived by her stepdaughter, Tracy Brown of Columbia, SC; step grandchildren, Lindsay Brown and Chris Brown of Columbia, SC.

Following cremation, a private memorial service will be held at a later date.

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Derek Lee Pittman - September 10, 1986 - March 01, 2020

Departed: 03/01/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Derek Lee Pittman, 33, of Cary, NC passed away March 1, 2020. Derek was born September 10, 1986 in Portsmouth, VA. He attended Woodrow Wilson High School in Portsmouth, VA.

In Derek's early 20's, he moved to Cary, NC with his sister, Tabitha, where he lived out the rest of his life. Derek was fun, loving, and giving of himself. He became a father to Cali Joann Pittman and loved his daughter more than anything in this world. He became a father again to Harper Grace Pittman. He was excited and happy to have another daughter.

He was an animal lover, a seafood connoisseur, an artist, a musician, and a beautiful writer among many other things.

He loved to cook. There was no need to eat out when Derek was around. Derek was a chef and loved cooking for others. It was a real treat when he did. He was passionate about music. Derek loved to write lyrics and play the guitar and drums. He enjoyed reading lyrics from his favorite bands. He was a creative and sensitive soul.

To make a living, Derek worked hard. He did pressure washing and window cleaning. He was good at his job and worked hard to provide for his family.

Derek is survived by his two daughters, Cali Joann Pittman and Harper Grace Pittman. He is also survived by his two brothers, Tyler and Travis Pittman and his sister, Tabitha Pittman.

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Maureen Bowen - July 06, 1964 - February 29, 2020

Departed: 02/29/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Maureen Bowen, 55, of Raleigh, NC, passed away Saturday, February 29, 2020, leaping" up to receive her wings and overcoming cancer. She was the daughter of the late Harry T. Bowen and Margaret Pat" (McCarthy) in Plainfield, IN.

She worked as a Senior Product Specialists at Net Health Systems for 6 years. She was an avid runner and a faithful, fierce friend to many people globally. Maureen is survived by two brothers Alan J. (Pat) and Mark J. (Andrea) Bowen. She was preceded in death by her sister, Sharon K. Crist. A Celebration of Life is being planned for a future date at Raleigh Brewing Company. Memorial contributions can be made to any of the following: Gail Parkins Memorial Ovarian Cancer Walk & 5K Run - Team Fluffy Strong http://www.ovarianawareness.org/Home.aspx#.XnzFGIhKiUk Transitions Lifecare https://transitionslifecare.org/donate/ Purr Partners Feline Rescue

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Quentin Chantry Haning - August 26, 1928 - February 29, 2020

Departed: 02/29/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Quentin Chantry Haning, 1928-2020, died at home on Saturday, February 29, 2020 following numerous weeks of declining health. His wife and best friend of fifty years, Blanche, was at his side.

Quentin wore numerous hats during his blessedly-long life: southwestern Iowa farm lad, U.S. Air Force Captain, university professor, realtor, and finally, self-employed business man. Through it all, he was a capable, honest, kind, gentle and generous person who loved God, country, family, and all whom he met. He enjoyed traveling, camping, gardening, cats, and reading and thinking.

Left to grieve his passing are his sister, Sally Dryden, of Niceville, FL. and brother, David Haning, of Sidney, IA as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families located all over the world.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Kathryn; brothers, Richard, William, and Allen Philip; nephew, Shawn; and niece, Holly. He also loved Blanche's family and considered them all as his own.

He will be especially remembered at the twelve o'clock noon Mass on Sunday, May 3, 2020 at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral. He will be interred in the Sidney Cemetery in Iowa at a later date.

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Rose-Marie Wilcher - May 27, 1956 - February 28, 2020

Departed: 02/28/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Rose-Marie Wilcher, 63, of Raleigh, NC passed away on February 28, 2020. She was born May 27, 1956 to Otho Sonny" Hicks and Shirley Hicks in Henderson, NC.

​She graduated from Menchville High School class of 1974 in Newport News, VA and then Chowan College in North Carolina. She had a wonderful career as a social worker in both Newport News, VA and Wake County, NC.

​Rose-Marie enjoyed a beautiful marriage of 15 years to her husband, Irvin Wilcher. Making friends was one of Rose-Marie's best talents. She had a compassionate spirit and her greatest love was her family. She was many things: a wife, a daughter, a sister and a mother, but her favorite was being a grandmother.

​Rose Marie was preceded in death by her mother, Shirley Hicks of Newport News, VA. She is survived by her father, Sonny Hicks of Henderson, NC; her son, Daniel Bryant of Hampton, VA; her spouse, Irvin Wilcher and his three children; and their six grandkids, Jaden Bryant, Jordan Bryant, Leo Wilcher, Enzo Wilcher, Levi Wilcher and Oliver Wilcher. She is also survived by two siblings; brother, Glenn Hicks of Yorktown, VA and her sister, Crystal Hicks of Newport News, VA; as well as her niece, nephew, cousins and friends.

​A memorial service will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, March 7, 2020, at Renaissance Funeral Home, 7615 Six Forks Road, Raleigh, NC 27615. Family and friends are welcome to a gathering with refreshments immediately after the service.

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R. Wayne Philbeck - June 06, 1936 - February 23, 2020

Departed: 02/23/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: ***Due to the State of Emergency declared by the State of North Carolina in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the family is opting to postpone the Homecoming Celebration service. The family will be scheduling the service for a later date. Please check here often for an update.*** R. Wayne Philbeck of Cary, North Carolina left this earth on February 23, 2020 to be united with his Lord Jesus Christ. He left the following words for us:"For I died when Christ died, and my real life hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, who is my real life, is revealed to the whole world, I will share in all His glory." (Col 3:3-4)"And now, all glory to God, who was able to keep me from stumbling, and who now brings me into His glorious presence, innocent of sin and with great joy. All glory to Him, who alone is God my Savior, through Jesus Christ my Lord. Yes, glory, majesty, power, and authority belong to Him, in the beginning, now, and forevermore. Amen" (Jude 24-25)

Mr. Philbeck was born in Shelby, NC and his childhood home was in Hickory, NC. He was predeceased by his parents, Mary Hambright Philbeck and Amzi Clyde Philbeck, both of Hickory, NC. He is survived by his sister Joan Philbeck Drum, and his brother Ronald (Lin) Philbeck, both of Hickory. He leaves his devoted wife, Patricia Barrett Philbeck, four children Mark (Kim) Philbeck, Keith Philbeck, Jennifer Philbeck, and Timothy (Autumn) Philbeck, eleven grandchildren and one great grandchild, all from North Carolina and Virginia.

Mr. Philbeck was a Korean War veteran, attaining the rank of First Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. He graduated With Honors from N.C. State University and was retired from IBM where he had received an Outstanding Contribution Award for computer design work.

During his retirement years Mr. Philbeck became known as the"Computer Coach" because he enjoyed helping people with their personal computers.

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Leroy Lincoln Smith - November 16, 1934 - February 22, 2020

Departed: 02/22/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Leroy L. Smith, Jr., 85, of Franklinton, North Carolina peacefully passed away on February 22, 2020. He was born on November 16, 1934 in Danbury, Connecticut. He was the son of the late Leroy L. Smith, Sr. and Magdelene Sartori Smith.

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Ronnie Bree - September 06, 1977 - February 15, 2020

Departed: 02/15/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Ronnie Bree, 42, of Raleigh, North Carolina passed away unexpectedly on February 15, 2020. He was born on September 6, 1977 in Smithtown, New York. He attended the public schools of Connetquot and then pursued trade school education to become a master electrician and worked for Clear Choice Electric.

Ronnie is survived by his wife, Tracy, and their two children, Alexandria (Alex) Bree, and Joseph (Jojo) Bree. He is also survived by his mother, Catherine Naudus; his sister, Rhonda Goodman and brother-in-law, Mike Goodman; his mother-in-law, Christine Pereira; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Ronnie was known as a very handsome, funny guy who always had a bright smile. He was constantly cracking jokes, keeping everyone laughing, and you just never knew what would come out of his mouth. He was a hard worker and good provider for his family. Ronnie loved his children so much and was a great dad. And he always gave the biggest bear hugs!

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Nhung Van Phan - April 10, 1916 - February 13, 2020

Departed: 02/13/2020 (Raleigh)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Nhung Phan, 103, of Creedmoor, North Carolina died on February 13, 2020 at his home with family by his side. Nhung was born in Vietnam in 1916. He is survived by his wife, Nhi Huynh and their children.

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Personalized Funeral Services

We believe that every life is unique, and every funeral should be too. That's why we offer personalized funeral services that cater to the individual needs and preferences of each family. From traditional funerals to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and celebrations of life, we work closely with families to create meaningful and memorable tributes to their loved ones.

Cremation Options

Renaissance Funeral Home and Crematory offers a range of cremation options to suit different needs and budgets. Our on-site crematory ensures that your loved one is cared for with dignity and respect throughout the entire process. We also offer private viewing rooms for families who wish to say their final goodbyes before cremation.

Facilities and Amenities

Our funeral home is designed to provide a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere for families and friends to gather. Our facilities feature spacious visitation rooms, a chapel for memorial services, and a reception area for post-service gatherings. We also offer ample parking, wheelchair accessibility, and a children's play area to accommodate families with young children.

Pre-Planning and Advanced Planning

We understand that planning a funeral can be overwhelming, especially during a time of grief. That's why we encourage families to consider pre-planning or advanced planning for their own funeral arrangements. By doing so, you can ensure that your wishes are respected, relieve your loved ones of the burden of making difficult decisions, and even lock in costs at today's prices.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one can be a devastating experience, but it doesn't have to be faced alone. At Renaissance Funeral Home and Crematory, we offer grief support groups, counseling services, and online resources to help families navigate the grieving process. Our goal is to provide ongoing support and guidance as you heal and move forward.

A Commitment to Excellence

At Renaissance Funeral Home and Crematory, we are committed to excellence in everything we do. We strive to exceed expectations, provide exceptional service, and build lasting relationships with the families we serve. Our reputation is built on trust, integrity, and a deep understanding of the importance of honoring life's milestones with dignity and respect.

Contact Us

If you're looking for a trusted funeral home in Raleigh that truly cares about you and your family, look no further than Renaissance Funeral Home and Crematory. Contact us today to learn more about our services, schedule a tour of our facilities, or simply ask questions about the funeral planning process. We're here to help you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's usually published in a newspaper, online obituary platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the person's passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing important information to those who need to know about the funeral or memorial service. They can also be a valuable resource for genealogists and historians.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. You may also include information about the funeral or memorial service, charitable donations, or other relevant details.

Who writes an obituary?

The obituary is usually written by the family of the deceased, often with the assistance of a funeral home or obituary writer. In some cases, a close friend or colleague may write the obituary.

How long does it take to write an obituary?

The time it takes to write an obituary can vary depending on the complexity and length of the piece. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to craft a well-written obituary.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, you can write your own obituary! In fact, many people choose to do so as a way to ensure that their life story is told accurately and honestly. This can also be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life and accomplishments.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only the most basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary, on the other hand, provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication or platform you choose. Some online obituary platforms offer free or low-cost options, while traditional newspapers may charge several hundred dollars or more.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to personalize the tribute and help readers remember the person who has passed.

How long will my obituary remain online?

The length of time an obituary remains online depends on the publication or platform. Some websites may keep obituaries archived indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period of time.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, it may be possible to make corrections or updates to an obituary after it's been published. However, this is not always possible, especially if the publication has already gone to print.

What if I want to keep my loved one's obituary private?

If you prefer to keep the obituary private, you can opt for a private or password-protected online posting. Alternatively, you can choose not to publish an obituary at all.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including meaningful quotes, poems, or lyrics can add depth and personality to an obituary. Just be sure to obtain any necessary permissions or credits for copyrighted material.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

You can usually submit an obituary to a newspaper by email or through their website. Be sure to follow their specific guidelines and deadlines for submission.

Can I post an obituary on social media?

Yes! Many people choose to share an obituary on social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter. This can be a convenient way to reach a large audience quickly.

What if I don't have access to all the necessary information for an obituary?

If you're missing important details about your loved one's life, you can try contacting relatives, friends, or former colleagues for assistance. You can also omit certain details if they're not available.

Can I include charitable donation information in an obituary?

Yes! Including information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers can be a meaningful way to honor your loved one's memory and support a good cause.

How do I proofread an obituary for errors?

Carefully review the obituary multiple times for spelling, grammar, and factual errors. It's also a good idea to have someone else review it before publication.

What if I'm not satisfied with the final version of the obituary?

If you're unhappy with the final version of the obituary, try speaking with the publication or writer directly to resolve any issues. Keep in mind that some changes may not be possible once the piece has been published.

Can I use humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! Humor can be a wonderful way to celebrate your loved one's personality and spirit. Just be sure to use good taste and avoid offending anyone who may read the obituary.

How do I handle sensitive or difficult information in an obituary?

If your loved one had a complex or challenging life story, it's essential to approach sensitive topics with care and compassion. Consider seeking guidance from a professional writer or counselor if needed.

What if I want to include non-traditional elements in an obituary?

If you want to include non-traditional elements such as music playlists or favorite recipes in an obituary, many online platforms and modern funeral homes are open to creative expressions of grief and celebration.

Can I reuse an existing obituray template?

You can certainly use existing templates as inspiration or guidance when writing an obituray. However, try to personalize the content as much as possible to reflect your loved one's unique life and personality.

How do I find inspiration for writing an obituray?

You can find inspiration by looking at examples of obituaries online or in newspapers. You might also consider talking with friends and family members about their memories of your loved one.