Renee Anne Fava Epps

In Loving Memory of Renee Anne Fava Epps

Renee Anne Fava Epps entered into eternity, leaving behind a legacy of extraordinary love, unwavering compassion, and selfless devotion. To know Renee was to know kindness in its purest form. She touched countless lives, both human and animal, and made each one feel seen, valued, and deeply loved.

Born to hardworking farmers, Joseph and Antoinette Fava, Renee inherited the strength, determination, resilience, and unwavering work ethic that would define her life. She was also blessed to share that life alongside her beloved sisters, Racquelle Rockwell (formerly Fava) and Alisa Fava-Fasnacht, whose bonds remained a treasured part of her journey. While this loss is made even more profound by the passing of her sister, Racquelle, and brother-in-law, Eric Rockwell, her family finds comfort in knowing they are together now, at peace and forever surrounded by the happiness, love, and laughter they shared in this life.

Renee carried these values with her throughout every chapter of her life. She believed that how you did something was how you did everything. That philosophy shaped the way she cared for her family, built lifelong friendships, pursued her passions, and dedicated herself to helping those who needed her most. Through her strength, patience, generosity, and tireless spirit, she taught those around her the value of hard work, perseverance, and unconditional love.

As her sister so eloquently said, "If St. Francis of Assisi had ever needed an assistant, it would have been Renee." Her compassion for all living beings knew no boundaries. She devoted herself to animal rescue and rehabilitation with unmatched passion, becoming a safe haven for countless animals who somehow found their way to her doorstep. Whether through her work as a barrel racer, roper, professional dog groomer, advocate, rescuer, or caretaker, she believed that every living creature deserved love, dignity, and a chance to thrive.

As her son so lovingly shared, Renee had a rare and beautiful gift: she made people feel understood. She could listen without judgment, offer wisdom without expectation, and bring comfort when words seemed impossible to find. When life felt overwhelming, she helped others find their way back to peace. She was a safe place, a steady presence, and a source of light for anyone fortunate enough to know her. She had an uncanny ability to mend broken wings, helping others discover strengths they never knew they possessed.

To her family, Renee was many things. She was Momma Nae, Auntie Nae, Nae Nae, godmother, sister, wife, confidante, mentor, and friend. To her children, she was their sun, warming every spirit she touched. She taught them how to be strong, how to love fiercely, how to be loyal friends, devoted spouses, caring parents, and compassionate human beings. She opened her heart not only to her own children but to countless others who found in her a second mother, a trusted counselor, and an unwavering supporter.

Those who knew Renee never knew loneliness. There was always a seat at her table, a listening ear when needed most, and a place in her heart waiting for them. She loved loudly and fearlessly, lifting others up and encouraging them to become the best versions of themselves. Her faith, generosity, and boundless capacity for compassion created a ripple effect that will continue for generations.

Many who loved her came to see Renee as something rare in this world, an angel among us. She gave of herself freely and selflessly, never seeking recognition and never asking for anything in return. The impact she made cannot be measured. Her presence brought healing, laughter, understanding, and hope wherever she went.

To her nephew, she was far more than an aunt. She was a godmother who loved him as her own, someone who could make people smile even in the most difficult moments. To her niece, she was proof that angels walk among us, a gift from God whose purpose was fulfilled through a lifetime of loving service to others. To her family, she was a source of strength, guidance, and comfort whose influence will forever remain.

As her stepson lovingly shared, Renee was the right woman for his father and brought true love and everlasting light into their lives. Her memory will live on in the embrace of family, in a shared love of animals, in familiar phrases and everyday moments that bring a smile, and in the countless ways she would be proud of the family she helped build.

Renee's legacy will be carried forward by the people she loved most: her devoted husband, Robert K. Epps; her daughter, Joa Renee; and her sons, Jacob Joseph and Griffin Robert. Through them, her compassion, strength, wisdom, and boundless love will continue to shine.

As her daughter so beautifully said, if there was ever a soul deserving of angel wings, it was Renee. Her love, energy, and spirit remain with all who knew her, and her family finds comfort in the belief that one day they will be reunited.

Today, while this world mourns the loss of one of its kindest and most beautiful souls, Heaven surely rejoices. One can only imagine the greeting she received from the countless lives, both human and animal, that she loved, rescued, nurtured, and healed.

As her beloved husband wrote:

"Renee Anne Fava Epps. A truly amazing loving wife and mother has perished and entered into eternity. Renee (Momma Nae) gratified her consistently beautiful life by always choosing to put her family, children and all animals first. Her undeniable ability and passion to accept and enter the challenges of animal rescue and rehabilitation do rank as second to none. A selfless and strong farm raised daughter and woman who passionately loved the opportunities to create a voice where most often no voice would or could be heard.

Renee and her eternal energies will most immediately and continually be carried forward by her ever-loving husband, her daughter, and two sons.

Renee, my angelic bride, you've always said that the air of heaven is that which blows between a horse's ears. Breathe deep and forever ride easy, knowing our earthly ride and reins are endlessly led by you ever more."

"You only get one Mama."

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever riding free.

At the request of the family, all funeral arrangements are private and under the direction of the Greenlee’s Bentleyville Funeral Home 619 Main St. Bentleyville, PA.

In lieu of flowers or cards, consider donating to the funds that will support their families in this immediate time of need and incomprehensible pain.

Donation checks can be made out to:

Support for the Epps Family

AND/OR

Support for the Rockwell Family

And can be dropped off at the Ellsworth Sportsmen’s Club 20 Ten Mile Lane, Scenery Hill PA or mailed to Huntington Bank 10 Trinity Place, Washington PA 15391

Other donations can be made to each family's Go Fund Me pages.

Fundraiser by Griffin Epps : Support the Fava Epps Familyhttps://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=31395199764fc133057d814ff06c0f97c8dbcedda16b3ab896e689c447dab6bbJmltdHM9MTc4OTUxNjgwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=262ca5c3-caea-6ff6-0505-b37ccb476e55&psq=go+fund+me+fava+epps&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29mdW5kbWUuY29tL2Yvc3VwcG9ydC10aGUtZmF2YS1lcHBzLWZhbWlseQ