Maureen June McInnis, lovingly known to many as "Renee," passed away on May 7, 2026, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, at the age of 72.

Born on January 21, 1954, in Parsippany, New Jersey, Renee lived a life rooted in compassion, courage, intelligence, advocacy, and an unwavering belief in the power of education. She was the beloved daughter of Lorraine McInnis and John McInnis and carried with her throughout life the strong spirit and determination that defined her from an early age.

Education was deeply important to Renee and remained one of the guiding forces throughout her life. She strongly believed in lifelong learning, personal growth, and utilizing knowledge to empower both herself and others. Her academic journey reflected that passion, as she attended Fairleigh Dickinson University, the University of Colorado Boulder, New York University, and the University of South Florida. She was endlessly curious, thoughtful, and intellectually driven, always seeking deeper understanding and encouraging others to learn, question, and grow alongside her.

Throughout her life, Renee became known as a fierce advocate for women, children, and those whose voices often went unheard. Friends and colleagues remembered her as someone who stood up for what was right long before it was common or easy to do so. She dedicated years of her life to helping others through advocacy work and domestic violence support services, leaving a lasting impact on countless individuals and families.

To those who knew her personally, Renee will be remembered for much more than her accomplishments. She was deeply compassionate, insightful, intelligent, and endlessly easy to talk to. She had the rare ability to make people feel understood and empowered. Her conversations could move effortlessly from profound life lessons to laughter and lighthearted stories. She was a loyal friend, a caring mentor, and someone who truly led with her heart.

Renee shared decades-long friendships that spanned from childhood in Parsippany through every chapter of her life. Friends remembered road trips, laughter, adventures, deep conversations, and a woman whose sense of humor and strength remained constant through the years. Many described her as courageous, generous, caring, and fiercely protective of others.

In the last fourteen years of her life, Renee shared a deep and meaningful partnership with John Frick. Together, they built a life filled with love, companionship, support, and shared experiences. Through life's joys and challenges, they stood beside one another, creating a bond that became an important and cherished part of both of their lives. Together, they also shared a love for cats, whose companionship brought Renee comfort, happiness, and peace throughout her life.

Above all, Renee's legacy is one of advocacy, compassion, resilience, intelligence, and love. She leaves behind family, friends, former colleagues, and countless people whose lives were made better simply because she was part of them.

Though she will be deeply missed, the impact of her voice, wisdom, kindness, and unwavering spirit will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.

May she rest in peace and power.