Annette (DeAnne) DeRenzi

Annette DeRenzi, of Exton, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the age of 89.  

Born on October 2, 1935, in South Philadelphia, Annette was the daughter of the late Anthony and Warine DeAnne. She was known for her love of children, her fondness for Betty Boop, and her appreciation for life’s simple joys—from an afternoon playing slot machines to a McDonald’s drive-thru for a mocha frappe. 

As a former licensed cosmetologist, she never left the house without lipstick and always knew how to boost someone’s confidence with words of affirmation. Food was her other love language, and she mastered Italian-American staples like stromboli, meatballs, pizzelles, and biscotti for friends, family, and neighbors.  

Her kindness, generosity, and spirited personality left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. She volunteered for much of her adult life, from fostering newborn babies to delivering Meals on Wheels around her beloved 19341 community and Chester County. 

She was a devoted mother to her three children: Donna Schmidt (Robin) of Annapolis, MD; Annette Best (Thomas) of Midlothian, VA; and Anthony DeRenzi (Aimee) of Clover, SC. She was also a proud grandmother to six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who will always remember her warmth and selflessness.  

Annette was preceded in death by her husband, Charles, who passed away in 2005. She will always be remembered for the kindness she extended and the love she gave so freely. 

A casual memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Mission Community Church in Downingtown. Please dress comfortably as Annette would want it that way. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Annette’s memory to Ronald McDonald House Charities or by mail at 3925 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104.  

Annette’s legacy of love, service, and generosity will live on in the many lives she touched.