Renee Gretencord

Renee Annette Gretencord, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, left earth to be with Jesus on November 10, 2025, in her hometown of Morris. She was born on April 6, 1967, to the late Clary and Georgia (Smith) King.
A proud graduate of Morris Community High School, class of 1985, Renee had a commitment to lifelong learning by furthering her education at Joliet Junior College. In 1987, she married her high school sweetheart, James Gretencord II. While juggling family life, Renee managed to earn her bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of St. Francis.
Renee's professional journey was as colorful and diverse as her vibrant personality. In her early years, she enjoyed waitressing at several establishments, including R-Place, Weits Cafe, Rockwell Inn, Sherwood Oaks, and Cracker Barrel. She treasured her time supporting students at the JJC bookstore and inspiring young readers at the Morris Public Library. Most notably, Renee dedicated 17 years to the Grundy County Special Education Cooperative where she left her mark on countless students. In her retirement, Renee took great pride in helping her daughter Annika at her local business - Influence Salon. Renee was loved by guests & stylists alike.
Renee's Christian faith was an important part of her life, while her infectious sense of humor brought joy to everyone around her. Her quirky charm endeared her to all, and she was especially known for her famous Chex Mix at family gatherings. Renee enjoyed simple pleasures in life - she could be found taking leisurely bicycle rides around town, a refreshing swim at the Rod & Gun Club, and driving under the speed limit (to other drivers' chagrin).
She is survived by her loving children: Kortney (Max) Schumacher, Annika (Josh) Allen, and James (Annie) Gretencord III. Her grandchildren - Stone, Dovie, Bear, Salem, and Winnifred - affectionately called her Grandma Nay, a title she wore with immense pride and joy. Additionally, she is survived by her brother, Dwayne King, and numerous cherished nieces and nephews.
A visitation for Renee will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the U.C. Davis-Callahan Funeral Home in Morris, with a celebration of her life following at 1:00 PM. She will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, family kindly requests donations be made to Ericka Johnson's classroom at the Grundy County Cooperative.
Donations can be mailed to: Grundy County Special Education Cooperative Attention: Ericka Wright 725 School Street
Morris, IL 60450
An online guestbook has been made for the family, where you may sign the guestbook, share memories and photographs. You can access this by visiting the website at www.ucdaviscallahan.com. Arrangements have been entrusted with U.C. Davis-Callahan Funeral Home, 301 W. Washington Street, Morris, IL.