Renee Marie Rockwell passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She was born Renee Marie Bussard on February 15, 1940, in Independence, Missouri, to Fred and Evelyn Bussard. As the eldest child in her family, Renee deeply loved and looked after her siblings.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Renee dedicated her professional life to caring for others as a Licensed Practical Nurse. After a rewarding career in nursing, she retired early to embrace her love for travel, community activities, and volunteer work.

Renee was an exceptionally creative spirit who expressed herself through cake decorating, crafting, interior design, gardening, and painting. She was also a famously talented cook and baker, frequently earning blue ribbons at county fairs. She often joked that she won the heart of her husband, Walter Rockwell, with her signature fried chicken and chocolate chip cookies. Beyond her hobbies, Renee was well known for her devotion to her beloved teacup poodles and Siamese cat, whom she proudly spoiled and adored.

Renee is survived by her husband, Walter Rockwell; her son, David Henderson, and his wife, Cathy; her daughter, Cynthia Padgett, and her husband, Jeff; and her stepdaughter, Cathy Rockwell. She is also survived by her five grandchildren, Carly Padgett, Corinne Padgett, Scott Henderson, Cassandra Betts, and Maria Schomer; fourteen great-grandchildren; her sister, Bonnie Allin; and nieces, Kathleen Mitchell and Barbara Green.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, James “Jimmy” Bussard.

Renee will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am to 10:00 am Friday, January 23, 2026, at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 East 39th St. S, Independence, MO. Funeral service will follow the visitation at 10:00 am. Interment will be at Mound Grove Cemetery in Independence.