Brenda L. Renko                 “beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and grandmother”

COUDERSPORT, Pa.—Brenda L. Renko, 62, a longtime resident of Coudersport, passed away with her loving family by her side on Sunday, September 17, 2023, in UPMC Cole, Coudersport, after a brief illness.

Born on Thursday, October 13, 1960, in Bradford, she was a daughter of Merton A. James and Lila J. Williams James McLaughlin.  On April 10, 1982 in Coudersport, she married Joseph E. “Joe” Renko, who passed away in May 28, 2020.

Brenda was a graduate of Smethport High School, Class of 1979.  She was also a graduate of the former Olean Business Institute in 1980.  She was employed as a line worker at the former Potter Pak in Roulette and was also employed by the Coudersport American Legion where she served in many capacities.

Brenda enjoyed reading. She loved her birds.

Left to cherish her memory are her mother, Lila McLaughlin of Cyclone; three brothers, Bradley (Dawn) James of Cyclone, Cory (Laurie) James of Salamanca, NY, and Ronald E. (Tina) McLaughlin, Jr. of Cyclone; a sister, Tammy (Mark) Higgins of Coudersport; a stepson, Jerrod Renko of Coudersport; six grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; a brother-in-law, Duane (Diana) Renko of Lancaster; and a special friend, Shirley Snyder of Genesee.

In addition to her father, Merton James, Brenda was predeceased by her stepfather, Ronald E. McLaughlin, Sr.; her son, Heath Renko, who passed away in 1984; a brother, Jeffrey James; and a grandson, Jordan Renko.

In keeping with Brenda’s wishes, there will be no public visitation.  A celebration of Brenda’s life will be held on a date and place to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Coudersport American Legion, 2 Buffalo Street, Coudersport, PA 16915 or to Teacher’s Pet Rescue, 19 Blackberry Lane, Coudersport, PA 16915.

Brenda’s family has entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

To express condolences, light a candle, or share a fond memory of Brenda, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.