Renate R. Hurd

Of Jackson, Michigan passed away on Sunday, February 25 after a lengthy illness. She fought courageously and spiritually to her last breath. The love from her devoted siblings, children, grandchildren, and friends were her guiding light to continue to persevere through her health conditions. Renate was born April 1, 1952 as the second child to James Edward Rogers and Marion (Cotton) Rogers. She was a devoted member of Southside Baptist Church in Jackson, Michigan her whole adult life. She loved her Southside Church family and served not only as the secretary but was also the lead vocalist in the church choir. Renate worked for over 40 years as an employee for Consumers Energy. Her hard work, drive, motivation provided a solid foundation for her two sons. She sat aside her desire to complete her education so that her sons could become strong, independent, well-educated black men. Renate was a Renaissance black woman. She loved art, music, theater, and enjoyed reading anything she could get her hands on. Not only did she attend numerous theatrical plays, but Renate was also a member of the community theatre group at Jackson College. She performed in a couple plays and was well known for her classical/ opera voice performance on the play titled, “The Mikado”. If you ever heard her voice, you would say out loud: “She can Sang”. Renate had an affinity for many genres of music. She was very eclectic. Her music playlist ranged from R&B, Motown Soul, Jazz, Gospel, to Opera. Whenever you visited her, you would normally hear some Jazz or Gospel music playing. Renate did extensive work in the community working with the Jackson City Council members as she was the chairperson for her Neighborhood Watch committee. She loved to travel abroad and throughout the United States. Renate was also referred to as Re’nate, Nay, Aunt Nay, and “Naitini” by many of her sons’ friends. She loved her family. Loved her siblings unconditionally. Renate never went more than one day without seeing either of her parents prior to them passing away. She was predeceased by her parents and her granddaughter, Lauren Amil Hurd. Renate is survived by her sons, Gene and Erin; siblings, Rochelle, Royce, Roderick, Deborah and Realestine; and eight grandchildren. Of course, we cannot forget her trusty sidekick/partner, Jack Russell Terrier, Mr. Piddles. A Home Going service will be held at Southside Baptist Church Friday March 1, 2024 at 12:00 P.M. with the family hour beginning at 11:00 A.M. Burial Woodland Cemetery.