The loving family of Juanita "Nita" Pearl Rennie announces her passing on June 13, 2026 in Stillwater, Oklahoma at the age of 75. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Nita's life was defined by her unwavering faith, dedication to her family and love for those around her.
A celebration of life will be held at Strode Funeral Home on Monday, June 22, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.
Born on April 28, 1951, in Alva, Oklahoma, Nita was raised in Aline, Oklahoma. She attended Northwestern Oklahoma State University, where she played basketball.
Nita built a life centered on serving Christ and others. She married the love of her life, John Rennie, in July of 1973. After living all over in Oklahoma and a brief time in California, they built a home with daughter, Jenny, in Eureka, Kansas. During Nita's years in Eureka, she was an active member of Jefferson Street Baptist Church, where she faithfully served on numerous committees and ministries. She also worked as a substitute teacher and school volunteer, touching the lives of many students with her kindness and patience.
John and Nita retired in Stillwater, Oklahoma where they cheered on the OSU Cowboys and were Cowgirl Basketball season ticket holders. Most famously, Nita was known for making the best homemade chocolate chip cookies, a simple gift that brought joy to family, friends, neighbors and anyone fortunate enough to indulge. She made everyone feel welcome and cared for.
Nita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Rennie; her parents, Melvin and Lucille Rich (Blevins); her brother, J.D. Rich; and her sisters, Leota Mott (Ron) and Vera Gardner and brother-in-law, Larry Rennie.
She is survived by her daughter, Jenny (Chris); granddaughter, Stella, who shared many activities with her grandma; brothers, Jack Rich (Donna) and Richard Rich; sister, Sue Thomas (John); brother-in-law, Bill Gardner; sister-in-law, Nancy Rennie; and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful staff and residents of Brookdale Assisted Living for the love, care, friendship and support they provided for Nita. A special thanks is extended to the ladies at her table, Glenna, Carol and Etta, whose companionship brightened her days, her longtime lunch friends, Gerri and Kathy, as well as to Luminos Hospice for their compassionate care and comfort during her final days.