Rev. Van Taliaferro Renick

The Rev. Van Taliaferro Renick, age 91 of Rocky Mount died at home surrounded by his wife and children on Thursday, October 28, 2021. Born in Augusta, GA on January 5, 1930 to Frank and Roberta Renick, he is survived by Kathryn (Katty), his wife of 69 years, whom he met at the University of GA; his daughter, Raleigh Renick Weckbaugh; son, Van T. Renick, Jr.; grandchildren, Todd Weckbaugh (Andrea), Casey Weckbaugh Kwitkin (Gary). Five great-grandchildren (Addison, Carolyn, Connor, Camden and Cooper) are also part of his legacy. Daisy, his granddog, must be mentioned as well; she was often the bright spot in his day the last few years.

After being discharged from the U.S. Army in 1955, Van worked for several years in the family clothing business in Augusta before enrolling in Sewanee Theological Seminary in 1964. After serving as Rector in Cordele, GA and Assistant Rector in Martinsville, VA, he was called in 1971 to Trinity Episcopal Church in Rocky Mount, VA, where he served until his retirement in 1992. During his time in Rocky Mount, Van volunteered for the rescue squad for 10 years; started a food pantry ministry at Trinity; and was a faithful part of the Wood for Warmth ministry.

Most who knew him well would agree that he was great fun at dinner parties, backyard barbecues and fishing trips with his buddies. Possessed of a great sense of humor and honorable in all his dealings, he also had a soft spot in his heart for the downtrodden. Van (“Baba”) will be missed by many. 

Memorial service followed by a reception will be held Monday, November 15, 2021 at 1:00PM Trinity Episcopal Church, 101 Church St. NE, Rocky Mount, VA 24151.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to either St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105  https://bit.ly/3jTkmL0 or to Trinity Episcopal Church, 101 Church St. NE, Rocky Mount, VA 24151. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.