Renea Boyd

Renea Gowens Boyd, born April 25, 1950, in Allegan, Michigan, transitioned at home on September 4, 2026 leaving behind a legacy defined by love, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to family and community. The eldest of seven children born to Kenneth and Carmelita Gowens, Renea embraced her role as big sister with pride and devotion. She grew up alongside her siblings—Kenneth (Russel), Rosalind, Rhonda, Rosita, Roberta, and Rory—each of whom she held close throughout her life.

During her junior year at Allegan High School, Renea met the love of her life, Charles Boyd. Their bond was immediate and enduring. They married on March 20, 1969, and shared fifty-five beautiful years together until Charles’s passing on June 19, 2024. Their marriage was a testament to partnership, resilience, and deep affection. Together, they raised three children, Nichole, Charles, and Kelly—who were the heart of their world.

Renea was a dedicated and hardworking woman who spent twenty years at Summit Polymers. She made history as the company’s first Black woman to serve as Union President, leading with fairness, courage, and a steadfast belief in opportunity for all. In her final decade at Summit, she focused passionately on diversifying the workforce, opening doors, and creating pathways for future generations.

In 2015, Renea and Charles moved to Arizona, embracing a new chapter filled with sunshine, family visits, and well-earned rest. Nothing brought Renea more joy than time spent with her grandchildren—Maxwell, Alicia, Kalan, and Chandler—and her “Boyfriend” (Nichole’s husband) great-grandsons, Sage and Legacy. She also enjoyed her daughter-in law Sonjalita (Charles’s wife), son-in law Jonathan Garris aka “Boyfriend” and grand daughter-in-law Josie (Maxwells’ wife) and friends. She delighted in their laughter, celebrated their milestones, and poured her love into each of them.

Renea will be remembered for her sharp wit, nurturing spirit, creativity, fierce love, and straight-shooting nature—qualities that made those around her feel grounded and truly seen. She spoke the truth with humor, cared deeply and without hesitation, and lived with a spirit that was both bold and warm.

Her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her, yet her legacy endures in the family she nurtured, the lives she touched, and the example she leaves behind.

Never Forgotten

Without you we would not be; though our time with you has ended, in each of us will Always be a life that you have blended. As life goes on, our hearts will mend; though you will be deeply missed, you having been a part of you, we truly been blessed. As time goes on our thoughts of you will give our path some light and, in our hearts, we know now that you will be all right.

Written by Renea Boyd for Kenneth Gowens