Elitra "Lee" (DeVries) Renner

Elitra "Lee" (DeVries) Renner, 87, of Staunton, IL, passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2025 at Community Hospital of Staunton, IL.  She was born October 18, 1937 in New Douglas, IL, the daughter of the late Harvey & Violet (Johnson) DeVries.

She graduated from Staunton High School in 1955, where she was honored as Homecoming Queen in 1954.  On August 30, 1958, she married Billy Renner, who preceded her in death on November 26, 1999.

Lee worked for many years at the Staunton Star-Times, serving the community with dedication until the age of 86.  She covered countless local events, including more than 25 years of high school sports reporting.  One of the highlights of her career was covering the 1993 Staunton Bulldogs Boys' Basketball IHSA State Championship from courtside.

Even in her later years, Lee remained active & independent, often traveling solo on road trips across the country well into her late 70's & 80's.

She is survived by her brother -  Leon DeVries of Houston, TX;  two daughters -  Roxanne (Robert) Marra of Staunton, IL,  &  Amy (Max) Beyer of St. Louis, MO;  & a grandson she raised as her own -  Andy (Marlena) Renner of Alton, IL.  She is also survived by her grandson -  Adam Marra of Staunton, IL;  great grandson -  Joshua Renner of Alton, IL;  & many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, & friends.

Visitation will be from 11 AM to 12 noon on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton, IL.  Funeral services will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton, IL, with Pastor Phil Girardin officiating.  Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton, IL.

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