Renee Rachelle Abel

Renee Rachelle Abel 

August 1, 1958 – August 12, 2026 

Renee Rachelle Abel, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2026, at the age of 68. 

Renee was preceded in death by her father, Harry Dugan Sr., and her brother, Harry Dugan Jr.   

She leaves behind her devoted husband of 48 years, Gregory Abel of Willow Park TX; her mother, Sue Dugan of Kirkwood, MO; her daughter, Jennifer Schmaltz Croft and husband Derrick of Fort Worth, Texas; and her son, Casey Abel and wife Lauren of Weatherford, TX.  She was a loving grandmother to Katie Gowen and husband Kyle of Desoto, MO, Adam Poliette and wife Cora of Hillsboro, MO, Hudson Rose Abel, and Hollis Renee Abel. She was also blessed with four great-grandchildren, Jace, Everleigh, Kenlie, and Kenna, who brought tremendous joy to her life.  She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. 

Renee found her greatest joy in the people she loved. She cherished time spent with family and friends and especially treasured her trips to the beach. Her home was always a welcoming place—a place where family, friends, and anyone who needed somewhere to feel loved were welcomed with open arms. There was always room at her table, another chair to pull up, and space for one more person in her heart. She had a special gift for making people feel at home and reminding them that they belonged. 

Renee had a deep love for children and dedicated much of her life to helping them learn, grow, and succeed. She earned her Master’s degree in Education from Fontbonne University and spent much of her career serving children as a Special Education teacher, reading specialist, and tutor. Her patience, compassion, and dedication touched countless lives, and the difference she made in the lives of the children she taught will continue for generations. 

Above all, Renee will be remembered for her fierce love of family, her generous spirit, and the warmth she brought into the lives of everyone around her. She created a home where people gathered, memories were made, laughter was shared, and no one ever had to wonder if they were welcome. 

Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends, former students, and all those fortunate enough to have known and loved her. 

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

All friends and family are welcome to a Visitation from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. and Celebration of Life at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at Chapel Hill Mortuary - Robert Brown Chapel, 103 4th Street, Hillsboro, MO 65050.