Renata Diane Root

Renata Diane Root, 58, passed away on August 13, 2025, in Yakima, Washington. Born on September 6, 1966, in Toppenish, Washington, Renata lived a life rooted in service, tradition, and deep love for her family and community. Renata’s professional journey was as diverse as it was dedicated.

Her career spanned from working in Forestry and Fire Management to holding various office positions within the Yakama Nation. She pursued dispatch training for the Tribal Police Department and served as a bookkeeper for numerous programs including Human Services and YN Justice Services. Her work reflected her commitment to supporting her community through both administrative excellence and hands-on service.

Renata is survived by her husband, Leon Paul Wahsise; her sons William (Aiyana) and Leonard (Lillian); and her cherished bonus sons—Ryan, Benny, Anthony, Jacob, Kaileb, Davaughn, Jaquan—and many more such as Angel, Jorge, Steven to name a few who held a special place in her heart. She also leaves behind her bonus daughter Jazzmone.

In addition to raising her own children, Renata lovingly cared for Caroline, Nala and Rosanna as part of her extended family. She is also survived by her mother Esther and stepfather Alfred Sr.; brothers Quetin and Alfred Jr. and their mates & children; sisters Sissy, Nikki, and Samantha; along with many nieces, nephews and grandchildren who were dear to her.

Though too numerous to name individually, each one knew they were loved deeply by Renata. Renata is now reunited with those who went before her: father Robert Root Sr., brother Robert Root Jr., sister Joenita, and beloved son Delmar. A woman of strong cultural values and spiritual devotion, Renata carried a deep belief in the Seven Drum religion and actively participated at the Toppenish Creek Longhouse.

She also contributed to the 1910 Shaker Church community by cooking when called upon—a reflection of both her faith and generosity. Her love for the outdoors was evident in every season. Renata found joy in gathering traditional roots and berries—a practice that connected her to the land and heritage she cherished.

She was one of the respected Lady Hunters on the reservation and took great pride in being out on the big river alongside the fishermen in her family. Each September brought excitement as she looked forward to attending the Pendleton Round-Up—an event she held close to her heart. More than anything else, Renata will be remembered as a loving mother whose home was always open. From the youngest child to elders in need of care or comfort, all were welcomed under her roof with warmth and kindness.

Her legacy lives on through those she nurtured, supported, laughed with, prayed beside—and loved unconditionally. May Renata Diane Root’s memory bring comfort to all who knew her and continue to inspire acts of compassion rooted in tradition and love.

A Funeral Service will be held on August 15, 2025 at Toppenish Creek Longhouse Mission Road. Dressing will be on 08/15/2025, she will be picked up at 9:00 am from Valley Hill Mortuary, Zillah, WA and transported to Toppenish Creek Longhouse for her dressing services at 10:00 am. 08/16/2025 at Sunrise she will leave to go to the Simpson Cemetery in White Swan for burial.