Helen Mary Renar, age 68, of Covington, Virginia, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at her residence, surrounded by love and peace. Her departure leaves a profound void in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know her. A woman of unwavering kindness, resilience, and compassion, Helen’s legacy is one built on service, family, and quiet strength.
Born on May 29, 1957, in Washington, D.C., Helen was the beloved daughter of the late John and Eleanor Renar. From an early age, she exhibited a thoughtful nature and a sharp intellect, always eager to learn and help others. She carried those qualities throughout her life and career, making a lasting impact on her community and loved ones.
Helen spent much of her early childhood in the vibrant neighborhoods of D.C., later relocating with her family to Virginia, where she found her lifelong home in the peaceful hills of Covington. She graduated from Alleghany High School and pursued studies in healthcare, dedicating many years of her professional life to nursing and elder care. Her gentle touch and empathetic heart brought comfort to countless patients, many of whom remembered her not just for her skill, but for the warmth she brought into every room.
But Helen’s greatest joy and devotion were found in her family. She was a loving mother, a proud grandmother, a devoted sister, and a loyal friend. Her home was a place of warmth—where laughter echoed through the kitchen and where no one ever left hungry or unnoticed. She had a gift for listening without judgment and offering wisdom when it was needed most. Her children, nieces, and nephews recall endless bedtime stories, handwritten birthday cards, and spontaneous road trips that became the stuff of family legend.
Helen had a deep appreciation for nature, often spending her mornings tending to her garden, watching birds from her porch, or walking along the trails near her home. She found peace in the simple things—sunsets, a good book, a fresh cup of tea, or the company of her beloved pets. A talented crocheter and baker, Helen found joy in creating, often gifting handmade blankets, scarves, and cakes that were treasured by all who received them.
She was a woman of quiet faith, drawing strength from her spiritual beliefs and practicing them through her actions every day. Whether volunteering at her local church, organizing food drives, or simply offering a listening ear, Helen exemplified humility and grace.
Those left to cherish her memory include her two children, Daniel Renar of Clifton Forge and Melissa Renar-Hayes (Ryan) of Roanoke; her five grandchildren, Liam, Ava, Mason, Sophie, and Caleb, who were the lights of her life; her sister, Laura Pennington (Mark) of Charlottesville; her dear friend of over 40 years, Judith “Judy” Taylor; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbors, and friends.
Helen was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Gregory Renar.
Though words cannot capture the full breadth of Helen’s life or the grief left in her absence, her family takes comfort in knowing that her spirit lives on in every life she touched. She will be remembered not only for the love she gave so freely, but for the dignity and gentleness with which she lived each day.
A celebration of Helen’s life will be held on Monday, August 4, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the chapel of Loving Funeral Home in Covington, with Pastor Sharon Donaldson officiating. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery, where Helen will be laid to rest beside her parents.
In honor of her compassionate heart, the family asks that donations be made in her memory to the Alleghany Humane Society or the Covington Food Pantry, two causes that were close to Helen’s heart.
As we mourn Helen’s passing, we also give thanks—for a life beautifully lived, and for the immeasurable ways she enriched our own. May she find the peace she so richly deserves, and may her memory be a guiding light to all who loved her.
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