Judy Arlene Renner

After living for several years with multiple myeloma, Judy Renner of Cleveland, Tennessee, passed away on May 19, 2026, at the age of 76. In her final days, she left her family with a simple reminder of what mattered most to her: "I have an amazing family."

Judy lived for her children: Robin Renner Ford, Sam Christopher Renner and Amy Renner Hendricks. Though her children were all wonderfully different, Judy gave each of them the same lasting gift - a deep love of family. No matter where she was or what she was doing, if one of them called, she answered.

To Robin, who she called Robbie, Judy was the hilariously blunt, quick-witted cutup whose unforgettable "Judy-isms" became family legend.

To her only son, always Chris to the family, Judy was a fiercely proud mother. During her illness, Chris and his wife Lisa cared for Judy with extraordinary devotion, helping her remain in her home for as long as possible. Judy loved Lisa deeply and, in true Judy fashion, joked near the end that she wished she could take her with her.

To Amy, who she called Ames, Judy was a steady, comforting presence whose music filled her life as her church's longtime pianist. Some of Amy's sweetest memories were Sunday mornings spent beside her mother at the piano bench or singing together on the drive to church.

Judy also shared a special lifelong bond with Wendy Coultry, affectionately known as "JA," who she loved like a daughter.

Her legacy lives on through her granddaughters and their families: Holly and Shane Young, Marissa and Alex Lehman, Kayley and Chase Woodburn, Lila Hendricks and Hannah Hendricks; and through her great-grandchildren Christopher and Olivia Lehman and Shane, Connor and Mia Young. The grandchildren who grew up nearby knew great-grandma's candy drawer was always open.

Judy is now reunited with her husband, Sam Renner, who passed away in 2016 after 48 years of marriage, as well as her parents, Robert and Inez Wells.

A lifelong resident of Cleveland, Judy attended Oak Grove Elementary and Bradley Central High School, where she remained close with many lifelong friends. She loved Tennessee Vols sports, westerns and gathering with friends. She especially treasured her friendship with Phyllis Martin, whose faithful companionship brought Judy comfort and support over the years.

Judy served as pianist at South Cleveland United Methodist Church for decades, playing beautifully by ear and filling services with music uniquely her own. In later years, she found a beloved church home at Westwood Baptist Church.

Judy leaves behind a family who will miss her sharp wit, beautiful music and the love she gave so freely every single day.

In lieu of flowers, honor Judy by gathering with friends, hugging the children in your life and making time for the people you love.

A graveside service honoring Judy's life will be held at Sunset Memorial Gardens on Tuesday, May 26 at 11:00 a.m.