Mary Jo Renner

Mary Jo Renner passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at the age of 81.

Born November 28, 1944, in Wyandotte, Michigan, Mary Jo was the eldest of seven children and a woman defined by deep faith, quiet strength, enduring love, and a spirited wit that brightened every room. Through life's joys and profound losses, she remained steadfast in her trust in God, confident that goodness and mercy would follow her all her days.

As a young woman, she felt call the religious life, but at nineteen, after a dream she believed was God's guidance, she chose instead to marry Henry Hank Renner, her beloved husband of 48 years. She devoted herself to Hank and their four sons, living out her faith through compassion, humility, and service. She was active in her parish communities at Christ the Good Shepherd in Lincoln Park and St. Joe's (Vincent Pallotti) in Wyandotte.

A natural caregiver with a sharp wit and infectious laugh, Mary Jo never met a stranger. Her family often joked she invented the smiley face -- a fitting tribute to the joy she brought others.

She is survived by her sons James (Sharon), Charles, and Matthew (Christine); six grandchildren, Alexis (Jeff), Liz (Cody), Kaela (Danny), Logan, Noah, and Isabella; one great-grandson, Mel; brother-in-law Dave (Cindy) Renner; her "forever daughters", Julie, Barb, and Rebecca; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Hank; her son, Mark; her parents, John and Joan Kogutz; and her siblings, John (Marilyn Brammer and the late Kathy), Daniel, Susan (Ron) Rushman, Cindy (Steve) Watkins, and Thomas; her brother-in-law Doug; and sisters-in-law Susan and Mary Ellen (Al) Lazuka.

Her faith has now become sight, and her life remains an enduring inspiration to share a smile, offer mercy, and spread kindness throughout the world.