Renee K. Whitney

Renee Koontz Whitney passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on April 29, 2026, at the age of 81.

Born on May 5, 1944, in Pasadena, California, Renee lived a life centered on love, family, and devotion. She was a dedicated mother whose kindness, strength, and unwavering support shaped her children's lives. Her sisters were more than family, they were her best friends. Central to her life was her relationship with her husband, Joe; they walked through life together as a strong and steady team.

Renee found joy in nature and treasured camping trips with her family. She especially loved the roses that bloomed in her garden despite the harsh desert environment, seeing in them a reflection of resilience, warmth, and beauty—qualities she embodied throughout her own life. Known for her caring heart and practical wisdom, she often reminded those she loved, “You just have to do what’s best for you and your family."

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Joseph Walker Whitney III; her three children, Joseph (Michelle) Whitney IV, Richard "Dick" Whitney, and Melanie (Omar) Francis; her sisters, Rachelle Rawson and Kristina (David) Orum; nine grandchildren, Joseph (Erin) Whitney V, Kyrstin (Bryce) Broussard, Jacob (Caroline) Whitney, Kaylah Whitney, Kellyn (Matthew) Peltier, Andrew Whitney, Brielle Whitney, Gabriel Francis, and Zachary Francis; and 14 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, W. Richard Koontz and Louise Northcutt Koontz, and her grandchildren, Joshua and Jonathan Whitney.

A service to celebrate her life will be held at 11am on Friday, May 22, 2026, at Calvary Church Baton Rouge, 3535 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70816. Family and friends are invited to attend and honor the memory of a remarkable woman whose love and devotion will continue to live on through all whose lives she touched.

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400