Carol Ann Renfro

Carol Ann Renfro, 68, of Rockford, commended her spirit to God at 8:10am on Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. She was born to Robert and Anna Champness in Chicago on December 3, 1939. She was formerly married to Donald Renfro. After home-making for 35 years, she worked in the jewelry department at Kohls and later became part of the team at Landstar Inway, where she retired after several years. She was a woman of great faith, and served as an active member of First Assembly of God for 20 years, where she worked as a Lay Counselor. After returning to her Catholic roots a few years ago, she became a member of St. Peters Cathedral, and treasured the sound of the church bells near her home. Those left on earth to rejoice in the memories she gave us include her children, Don (Cindy) Renfro of Byron, Kathy (Mike) Lewis, Karen (Angus Shull) Ward, Lisa (Derek) Benhoff, Mike (Anna) Renfro and Chris Renfro, all of Rockford. She was also blessed by her grandchildren, Amanda, Anna and Angela Renfro; Bethany, Christopher and Erin Lewis; Thomas and Ryan Ward; Chelsie, Joseph and Ethan Benhoff; Addison Renfro and Austin and Lucas Renfro. Her dear friend, Char (Ron) Fowler, will cherish her memory. Predeceased by her parents and her brother, Robert Champness. Carols family would like to thank the OSF St. Anthony Medical Center 4th floor Oncology Unit staff, Dr. Hoskins and his staff, the Pastoral Care Dept. and the Provena Cor Mariae Center for their love, care, and encouragement during her 10 year battle with cancer. In the sorrow of her loss, it is a comfort to know that she is, at last, cancer free. A funeral Mass will be held at 1:00pm on Monday, March 24, 2008 in The Cathedral of St. Peter with Rev. William R. Wentink officiating. Visitation will begin at 11am on Monday until the time of the Mass. There will be a private family burial at a later date in Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family, and condolences may be sent to the family at www.fitzgeraldfh.com. Words cannot do justice to the depth of Carols faith, hope and love for her family. Her concern for others and gracious hospitality, even in the final days of her life, were a testament of her selflessness and dignity. The warmth of her smile, the twinkle of her eye, and her bursts of sudden laughter touched everyone around her and made them feel instantly at home. She was quick to give whatever she could to those who came to visit her, and always found it much easier to serve than be served. She left behind her a legacy of love which cannot ever be taken away and that will remain a constant source of blessing. ""Her children will arise and call her blessed""¦Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates."" Proverbs 31:28 & 31