Shenitha Rena Hays

Shenitha Rena Hays, 65, of Chicago, IL, passed away on Wednesday Nov. 6, 2024, peacefully at her home. She was born Aug. 14, 1959 to the late Lena Day (Mother). She will be reunited with her brother, Larry Day who passed away last year. She is survived by her husband, Ilton D. Hays, mother-in-law Linda Hays, an aunt Lula Mae Day Mcbride, sister-in-Law Panchola Dockery, her two sons Jermale Cortez Day and Davon Hays, her daughter, Jessika Wheatley, her brother Jerry Day and two beloved nieces, Charyana and Treasure Day. She regretfully also leaves behind 4 grandsons, Jarren, Darren, Kyran, and Mekiah.

Shenitha was better known to family and friends as Rena. She truly adored her husband Ilton whom was her handyman and lifelong best friend. They met while both were serving in the United States Navy in Norfolk, VA onboard the USS Vulcan. Ilton and Shenitha were married on June 21, 1990, that is over 33 years of marriage. She loved her “HUSBAND” so much, as she would always refer to him.

Shenitha served her country with Honor, Courage, and Commitment, from December 1984 til December 2004. Her military career gave her the opportunity to travel all over the world to places like Virginia, California, Russia, China, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, and Antarctica. She was a Radioman, 1st Class Petty Officer now known as an Information System Technician. Her mind was brilliant, and she loved technology. She was the IT Lead for majority of her career and highly sought after and known as the “Go To Person” for all and anything IT! She was a problem solver and great leader of leaders. She dedicated her entire adult life to serving her country even after she retired from the United States Navy. She will be truly missed at the Naval Training Center, Great Lakes Military Base.

Rena was a very beautiful person inside and out. She was known by many for how sharp and smart she was. She was very educated and accomplished. She had 3 Masters, 3 Bachelors, and 4 associate degrees. She was the epitome of love. She was selfless, caring, passionate, and an example to follow for many in life. Rena displayed love in her actions, by serving others, with compassion and mercy. The love she showed to her family, friends, and co-workers will live on for an eternity.

Jermale and her grands were her pride and joy. She would talk about them with so much joy and affection in her voice. Let her memory be a constant reminder of how to treat, share with, help and love others. May the unconditional love and memories she showed us all live on forever and a day.