Charlotte A. Renner, 81, of Kearney passed away on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at her home surrounded by family. Memorial services were March 23 at Kearney First Baptist Church.
Memorials are suggested to the American Diabetes Association. Condolences may be shared online at www.osrfh. com. Services were entrusted to O’Brien Straatmann Redinger Funeral and Cremation Services.
Charlotte Anne (Licking) Renner was born Oct. 6, 1943, in North Platte, Nebraska, to Clyde and Vera (Cook) Licking. She grew up on a ranch south of Seneca, Nebraska, and loved the ranch life.
She attended Mullen Public Schools, then went on to graduate from Kearney State College, earning a bachelor’s degree in physical education and art. Charlotte taught public school and pre-school for several years, along with her own daycare.
On Dec. 27, 1964, Charlotte married Terry Renner, her college sweetheart, in Mullen, Nebraska, and they were blessed with three children: Melissa, Greg and Kristin. The family moved to Kearney, Nebraska, in 1970.
Charlotte committed her life to Jesus Christ as a young mom and wife and delighted in serving him in various ways in the church as well as outside it.
Time spent with her family and friends was very special to her, as well as being an avid reader, lover of nature and the out-of-doors, traveling, sporting events and playing the piano. She also enjoyed writing inspirational music. Animals always brought her much pleasure, as well. Charlotte’s grandchildren were beyond precious to her.
Left to cherish her memory are her husband Terry of Kearney; daughter Melissa and husband John Speace of North Platte, granddaughters Keannea Zacary and husband Jeremy of North Platte, Ashlynn Karye and husband Paul of Bee, Neb.; son Greg Renner and wife Tara of North Platte, grandchildren McKenna, Nathan, and E.J.; daughter Kristin Taubenheim and husband Troy of Lakeville, Minn., grandchildren Josh and fiancé Jesseca of Charlotte, N.C., Ally and husband Dee of Lakeville, Minn., and Reid and wife Kyley of Charlotte, N.C., Braden and wife Kate of White Bear Lake, Minn.; four greatgrandchildren Carter and Chloe, Eli and Layne; as well as numerous special nephews and nieces.
Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents; sister Virginia French; and twin brother Charles Licking.