Rene Whitley

Janet Rene Whitley, 64, of Kemp, Texas, passed away at her home in Seven Points, Texas on October 30, 2024. She was born on March 28, 1960, in Virginia to parents John Ernest and Carol (Easley) Waedekin.

Rene's early years were spent in Ennis, where she graduated from Ennis High School in 1978. Her talent for music blossomed during this time, as she played the saxophone and earned the prestigious John Phillips Sousa Award. With her passion for music guiding her, she furthered her education at Stephen F. Austin University, where she continued to nurture her love for the art.

To her friends and family, Rene was known for her infectious personality. She was the kind of person who never met a stranger and had a remarkable ability to connect with everyone she encountered. She was a free spirit, always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. It was not uncommon for her to give the shirt off her back to anyone in need.

Rene married her beloved husband, Ronney on March 27, 1981, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love and joy. She was proud of her two daughters, Mandy and Amy, and her three grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them. Family vacations were a highlight for Rene, as she delighted in creating memories with her loved ones. She also enjoyed spending quality time with Ronney and their beloved dog, Doobie.

The lake house was a cherished retreat for Rene, where she loved to spend quality time with family and friends. Fishing with her kids and grandkids brought her immense joy, as did the camaraderie she enjoyed at the VFW with friends and fellow veterans. Rene truly thrived in the company of others, and her happiest moments were those spent surrounded by the people she loved.

Rene, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend was a vibrant soul who touched the lives of many with her warm spirit and unwavering kindness. She will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved her. 

Rene was preceded in death by her parents, John and Carol Waedekin.

Rene is survived by her loving husband, Ronney Whitley of Seven Points, Texas; daughter, Amanda Johnson and spouse Woody of Atlanta, Texas; daughter, Amy Honeycutt and spouse Robin; granddaughter, Whitley Jo of Rice, Texas; granddaughter, Caroline of Atlanta, Texas; grandson, Tyler of Rice, Texas; brother, John Waedekin and spouse Karen of Ennis, Texas; brother, Jerry Waedekin and spouse Laura of Ennis, Texas; as well as numerous other extended family and friends.