Renee Joanne Gittins (née Devine) passed away peacefully on September 3, 2024, in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, at the age of 92. Born on December 2, 1931, in Sewickley, she was a cherished member of the community throughout her life.
 

Renee's early years were marked by her education at Sewickley High School. Her career was diverse and community-oriented; she worked as a lifeguard at the local YMCA, a bank teller at Mellon Bank, and was the proud owner of New Image, a dress shop. Renee's work always involved engaging with people, a testament to her loving and sociable nature.

A devout member of the Sewickley United Methodist Church for over 70 years, Renee's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was also an active participant in the Pennsylvania Order of the Eastern Star, where she held roles at both local and state levels, further highlighting her commitment to service and community.

Renee's personal life was rich with love and joy. She married Melvin Edward Gittins, and together they raised five boys, enjoying hobbies such as bowling, dancing to polka, and listening to music. Renee also had a passion for reading, sewing, and performing in local theater, activities that brought her much happiness.

She is survived by her sons, Daniel (Karen), Richard, Stephen (Julie), and Thomas (Kathy); sisters, Karen (Everett Shong) and Mollie Devine; grandchildren, Zachary (Erika), Julia (Maninder), Jillian, Christopher; Drew (Maggie), Matthew, Emma, Melanie; Sarah, Jennifer; Joanne (Eric) and Shawn and many great grandchildren.

Renee was preceded in death by her parents, Zora Irene and Alfred Patterson Devine; brothers, Denny (Rose) Devine and Bud (Barb) Devine; husband, Melvin Edward Gittins; and son, William (Beth) Gittins.

Viewings for Renee will be held at RICHARD D. COLE FUNERAL HOME, LTD., 328 Beaver St., Sewickley, PA 15143, on Friday, September 13, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. A special prayer service by the Pennsylvania Order of the Eastern Star is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. that evening. The funeral will take place at Sewickley United Methodist Church on Saturday, September 14, at 11:00 a.m.

Renee's life was a beautiful tapestry of family, faith, and community involvement. She will be remembered fondly by all who knew her as a kind, loving soul who dedicated herself to her family and the many lives she touched.