Juanita (Renner) Brown

Juanita Renner Brown, also known fondly by her family as “Mumo”, departed this life on June 19, 2023 in Corte Madera, California.

Juanita was born to Earl Franklin and Cecile Ruth (Gaither) Renner in 1934 and lived the majority of her life in Oklahoma. She graduated from Chandler High School in 1951 and went on to complete a bachelor’s degree at University of Central Oklahoma. Juanita met her husband, Donald Gene Brown, while they were both students at Central. Juanita would often joke when speaking of her husband that she “chased him until he caught me.” They were married in December of 1952 and welcomed their daughter, Donita Brown, in 1953. Don and Juanita were a steadfast and deeply loving couple, supporting each other, growing together, and having fun throughout their near 68 year marriage. They were also dedicated stellar parents and grandparents–spending quality time, never missing special events, and nurturing their family.

Professionally and in her community, Juanita excelled as a poised and progressive woman. While working full-time, she completed a Master of Education in Guidance and Counseling. Over the years she was an educator, counselor, and athletic coach. She believed in equality and the power of education and worked with countless students, touching many lives. Juanita stayed involved with her sorority, Delta Zeta, as well as the Greater Oklahoma City Alumnae Panhellenic Association, which awarded her “Woman of the Year” in 2012.

Juanita demonstrated unwavering compassion, wisdom, and grace. In her last days, Juanita remarked, “What a wonderful life I’ve had!” and also mentioned that she was planning on marrying Donald again.

Preceding Juanita in death are her beloved husband, Donald Brown, her parents, Earl and Ruth Renner; parents-in-law, George and Macel Brown; brother and sister-in-law Richard and Jo Ann Renner; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Sarah and Orlis Reames; sister-in-law Wanda Brown; and daughter, Donita Brown.

She is survived by brother-in-law, Bob Brown; granddaughters and sons-in-laws Kristin and Jon Novotny and Kaitlin and Patrick Rand; great granddaughters Vera, Helen, and Frances Novotny; as well as many other relatives and friends.