Jodi, You were a great friend to me and you may be gone but you will never be forgotten!!

Dear Jodi
   Dad and I need you to do us a favor. We sent Mitzi up to you on August 16th, which was 3 days ago.Please check to see if she's at the gate yet and if she is open it for her. Watch out for her till she knows her way around.
  Aunt Barbara said a well know a Evangelist, Pat Roberts wrote a book and in it he had some of the most often asked questions . One of the questions was do pets go to heaven? He replied that animals had no soles so there fore could not go to heaven. Of course anyone with a pet does not believe that. There is so much love they give how can they not belong there. I also believe in reincarnation and some times these animals act like humans. Mitzi was one of the most polite dogs we ever had and loved Dana unconditionally.
   Miss you so much! watching TV and look over at your chair, almost call out to see if you want me to pause the show. I can't even talk to Christine yet. Why is that??? I think of ya'll together and how you loved her. Please help me with this. I guess it's another one of my weepy nights. 
    Oh Baby Girl, wish I could give you a hug and a kiss goodnight.
    WE send our love, hope you can feel it. Take care of Mitzy

Jodi, I wish I had more time to know you. There aren't enough witty, fun-loving, nerdy women in this world, and we're all worse off for not being able to lose to you at Bananagrams anymore. The way you approached the world, your good humor and kindness and openness is something I admire and miss dearly. You will always be my role model for how to live a good life, and you will always be missed by the many people whose lives you made better.

   Last night Jodi's cat, Lupinn got out. It was really about 1 this morning. Dad tried for over an hour to corral him before he woke me to help. Needless to say I dreamed about you. You were younger.
   "Come help us" I said. "Come get your cat"I kept calling for you, looking all over the house.Than I found
 you sitting on the window seat. Your head in a book, lost in another fantasy world, another adventure. I wanted to keep dreaming.

Jodi: needless to say, this world is way less awesome without you here. Help us remember to handle our lives here on earth with the humor, grace, and kindness you showed us. You will be missed.

'not good-bye, just goodnight'

Jodi will be missed but not forgotten. There will be stories told of her for years. She may be gone, but in our hearts and in our games she will be there.

Where to start. I did not know you as long as others... However long enough to know how wonderful you were.  Always ready to have a conversation about anything and smile while doing it . No matter what the topic. You are and will be missed greatly Jodi.

Jodi, words cannot express how much I miss you. Growing up I always thought how cool you were and even though I had the same interests we didn't get to express how we felt about these things. I can't really dread on these things cause it hurts too much to think of all the what if's. I miss you and I just want you to be here with me playing a game or watching a movie and talking about them. I just really need a conversation with you right now, sometimes I talk to you and I can hear you responding to me, I'll never forget how hard it was watching you in the hospital in those last days, but I can't say that I wasn't glad to spend that time with you. no matter how tough it was I will never regret it. I no longer have the honor to spend family dinners with you, listening to you and Steve talk about all the things you were going to do and all the things you enjoy and have seen. I'm just at a loss of words.. You were such a Beautiful person and you always will be rememberd that way, I still cannot believe that you're gone.. but you know what you aren't, I still feel you. when the sun shines on me I think of it as you looking down on me and I feel such an overwhelming amount of love. Your name will always be said, and you will live on forever babe. whenever I watch a movie or play video games, no matter what I'm doing I'm thinking of you. I love you Jodi, and I can't say enough how we miss you. In our hearts you will stay.

This is to acknowledge all of Jodi's family, friends and acquaintances who have written some of the most beautiful and 
wonderful things about our girl.
   Linda Ruff "Aunt Linda" who went out of her way to help Jodi in every way possible, finding Doctors , driving Grammy to see 
her and just showing her how much she loved her. Her Grammy who always believed in her and would go along with 
some of the most outrages things just because it was Jodi. She made sure Jodi felt her love.

    My sister Lois who came in from Georgia and stayed two weeks. Her husband Jon who flew in twice at great expense. Lois 
and sister Barbara showed us such love and support. Barbara and Jodi always had so many things to talk about.  Sylvia who came as often as she could even though she was ill.

      Thanks again to Shawn and Corine for taking care of Jodi's Steve, Jake and Michaela for coming in twice from North Carolina.
Brian, Frank and her weekly gaming group  who gave her another outlet  for her creativity. She really looked forward to those
nights.I hope you know how she cherished your friendship. Barb Wright for letting me vent in an Email.

        My great thanks and love go out to Sue Greenman for letting me cry with her one Mom to another and for sharing her wonderful daughter Christine. She made Jodi stronger through her love. And Christine what do I say to you? You came to be with her during some of her most trying times.You know how much she loved you and we all shared in all your accomplishments. She 
loved going to visit you and Dom. She was so proud.

         I want to say how proud I am of all my grandchildren. Thank you Aubry for sitting with Jodi so she wouldn't be alone.
   Our son Steve for playing card games, your humor and introducing her to Riesling wine. Sanding up in front of everyone to
   give her  eulogy, I know how hard that was. Steve and his wife Vanda have been our Rock. They hold us when we cry and they
morn with us. They feed us and help keep our spirits up. They have a very special brand of humor. We love you very much.
      I just want to say Thank You to you all. there are so many we can't name you all but I', sure you know who you are.

Special Thank You to Anthony for officiating the service. 

           Mary and Dana

To Our Little Girl - Jodi

DAD: I was with you when you came into this world. I heard you cry and that cry brought us all great joy. It was the first of many. Your first smile, boy did you have me wrapped around your finger. Rolling over, sitting up, your first word, Da-daa. I was so proud and I think it irritated your Mom, lol. Your first stepsâ€¦ so many firsts. Then you took karate and broke my nose with a great kick(ouch). Big brother Steve playing peek-a-boo, hide & seek and teaching you to play catch.
 
We read to you every night, all kinds of books. When you were sick and had to stay in, we would read a variety of books using different voice to try to get a smile out of you You listened very intently to the words because each character had different voices. One of your favorite books was "GREEN EGGS AND HAM". We read that so many times we had to flip a coin to see who had to read it to you. . Pretty soon you would catch us if we tried to shorten the story by leaving out pages or words. Even big brother would try and read something different. We then said you read it to us and you did! Your memory was fantastic even then. You loved books and were reading at a second grade level between four and five years old. That was the beginning of your love affair with books. We told  her she could go so many places and learn so many things with reading. That's when her imagination soared.
 
You had imaginary friends, Jacka & Booty were your favorites. They would be the ones that messed up your room, kept you up all night, and kept the Boogie man away. We had the best tea parties with them and your â€˜Super' Grover. With Grover, you loved eating his blue fur. We always had to kiss them all good night with you. Sending you to your room was never a punishment, no matter what age. 
 
 In kindergarten you were in your first play. I think you were hooked from that point, especially when Nena (She was Nana to Steve but Nena to you and the debate went on because she was no banana) kept saying you were the best. We were there when you danced ballet, played the violin, and had your 1st computer, 1st car, and 1st accident. In fact you were so disappointed you got a car for your graduation instead of one of those new fangled laptop computers. Your first job was just to pay for the internet.
 
You had a group of friends that you'd hang out with. You'd go to someone's house or just hang out at Denny's, but one night you came home and asked if you could play a game called Dungeons and Dragons. We weren't really sure but we let you go. The way it was portrayed with the trench coats, the strange signs and the way people talked had us a little worried but we trusted you. Still, we thought we'd better check it out, so we asked if you'd like to host the next game at our house. We listened and were in awe of everyone's imagination. There was no malice in any of their stories and we were greatly entertained. So the weekly games began. We enjoyed â€˜most' every minute of it. It was so nice to have moms food so greatly appreciated and always nice to know where the kids were.
 
You loved being Aunt Jodi, loved reading to Alex and playing Ninja Turtles. You almost shared a birthday with Logan. You were a pretty good sport sharing your 16th birthday with a 3 year old that had Power Rangers and a Bounce House and everything else. You did love getting your face  painted. You were so proud of your family. You loved going over to Grammy and Grampy's. You had so many cousins, Aunts, and Uncles. We went every weekend to swim, ski, fish, and you loved inviting friends over for boat rides. It was almost a weekly party. We thank Barbara and John for all the memories they gave our family.
 
You were so proud of your name that when you fell in love you kept Rennebu as part of your married name. It gave you great pleasure to confuse people. We can hear you say, "There is a - between Rennebu & Test." 
 
 You were our family spokes person. You were our main tech support for all the computers, phones. and all the kindles. 
 MOM: I can still hear that sigh that said 'ok, I'm coming. I'm dropping what I'm doing to take care of you.' Than you'd touch one or two buttons and it was done. "No fair!" I'd say. I'm doing the same thing. I'm almost out of the 8-track age and I still need your help. Remembering all the socks you had. All the different colors, stripes, moons, mis-match, etc. There were so many different varieties. People knew you loved socks and even sent them to you. You were a 'Fox in the Socks"!   
 
 DAD: What am I going to read now? We always discussed our books. We read a lot of the same things so you would always pick our next series to read and planned which movies to be seen after reading the books. You were always a couple of books ahead of me. Your comprehension was remarkable and I will miss our nightly talks when neither of us could sleep. I still want to call your name and have you come and sit with us while we talk you into making us coffee.
 
When you were diagnosed with cancer we were so scared. Aunt Linda helped so much finding you a doctor right away. Through it all you were so strong and helped us through everything. You handled that whole time with such grace, strength, and humor you surprised us all. We were so proud of you. During your battle with Kemo,you went zip lining, flying off by yourself, being fearless in all you did. You were declared in remission and we rejoiced.
 
MOM: There are so many memories that flock to our minds. You and Christina on either side of me, skipping in the Winter Park Mall as ya'll sing, "We are off to see the Wizard!" You'd roll down the window at stop lights and ask people in the next car if they had any Grey Poupon. Having our toes done and you laughing hysterically because you were so ticklish on the bottom of your feet. When you talked about taking care of us when we got older, you'd smile that smile of yours and say, "I'll find you a really good nursing home." Than you would give us a hug.  
 
DAD: When you had your face painted at Lake Eola when you were 5, a reporter was taping you because you were so cute, running around laughing and smiling at dad. Our song was Old Time Rock & Roll, which we always danced too. You always loved stepping and standing on dad's feet as you danced with him. You wanted it for your 'Father-Daughter' dance to surprise everyone but the DJ forgot it. 
 
DAD: Crawling in my lap and falling asleep, so many things... You learning to play guitar. Husband Steve tried to make your wants a reality. You were so creative and patient. You were always surprising us. You were so many things to so many people, it made us so proud. 
 
This time when you got sick we had no clue. We had no time to talk!! So, yes I'm so angry because there was only 11 days. Your family rallied around you and you were never left alone. I hope you felt their love as we did. 
 
We lost our friend, our confident, our baby girl but she will always be with us in our hearts.

With all our love, Mom and Dad

This is so hard to write. Putting it in writing makes it real and somehow it doesn't seem real. It feels like you're the heroine of a play we saw where the lovely princess dies too soon. But it's not a play, it's real and in the new Jodi fashion you're going ahead to pave the way. I am so proud of the brave young woman you became (who travels cross-country for the first time in the middle of chemo?).  You were always special to our family from the day your mom and dad announced your existence and you  turned out to be their baby girl to join your big brother.  You became your own person during high school  and married 
Steve  in a fairy tale wedding ,  But it's too soon and you had more to do.
Grammy wants to know who will read the Christmas Story - a tradition she chose you to do  .You in many ways became the voice of the family, stepping up to speak when others could not. We will miss you every day of every year. Grammy and I will always think of you with so much love and pride..and for right now tears in our eyes...

Wow, what to say?  In some ways, we were polar opposites, but that didn't keep us from being close friends.  You never let me just believe something, you always held my feet to the fire to know why I believed what I did.  You were such an integral part of our lives for so many years, you're going to be sorely missed!  We'll keep a spot for you in our hearts and at the table!

Brian Craigo

The world spins in disbelief that you have left us so soon.  All the wonderful times we shared will always mean a lot to me.  Someday we will all gather again.  Though the time will seem an eternity, it will be but a blink of the eye.  Explore and gather your stories in your new world, for we will all want to hear them one day soon.

Jodi, 
  Where to start? You will be missed. I got the privilege to grow up across the street from you. We weren't just cousins we were friends. You were my first friend in Florida. I remember looking for you in the courtyard of Lockhart middle. The many nights of watching recored Star Trek Next Generation with Steve Berry. The many nights you'd come over and keep me company while my Mom and Steve worked graveyard.The games we played pretending to be charcters from Star Trek or Star Wars. The night Jeremy and I thought it would be fun to harass one of your gaming nights. By knocking on the window and running while your friends chased us down the street. Later on in live as we grew up we didn't as much time together. Though when we did get to see each other we could talk for hours about books t.v. shows and movies we'd seen. We shared a love for books especially sci-fi/fantasy genre. I can go on forever with memories. I love you dearly and will miss our conversations. If you hear of any new good books you recommend shot me sign. 

Love Jon

I first met Jodi playing Renaissance Kingdoms. We didn't really get acquainted till later on mostly playing Pathfinders and other games. Although I didn't have the pleasure of meeting her face to face, I considered her one of my dearest friends. I always enjoyed her humor, creativity, and fresh ideas. She was always quick witted and fun. Although our time together was brief and over great distance I miss her very very much. It's amazing how much impact she has had on me. I have thought about her and Steve constantly over the past few weeks. I regret not having the chance to meet her "in real life"
Laura AKA Teghanz/Boffin/Peony

I miss Jodi. We talked online almost every day for more than four years. She encouraged my inner geekiness, my hidden gamer, the convention-goer I never knew I was. She taught me Excel and role play and how to cosplay. 

We lived diagonally across the continent and in separate countries, and were a generation apart â€¦ but it never meant a thing.  We travelled to visit each other and I planned to go again next Spring.  I still do.

Jodi was one of the best story tellers I know, and one of the best creators of character bar none, but she never believed me.  She gave me courage â€“ no, that's not right; it's more like she never let me doubt I could do whatever I wanted to try. She made things happen that shouldn't have been possible: When I wanted to learn to play pen-and-paper RPGs, she ran games just for me â€“ online, despite technical difficulties and differences in time-zones for the players around the world. 

Jodi never ever made me feel I tread on her own experiences when I whined about the crap happening in mine. Her illness and its fallout taught me a lot about who we are compared to what we look like, or even feel like. She loved and lived and enjoyed and yes, got pissed off and sad and angry, and kept fighting and enjoying.

No matter what was going on, I always felt better when my screen would light up with â€œYou up for trains?â€ and we'd put on headsets and cackle away at trying to beat the robots in Ticket to Ride. And I almost forgive her for introducing me to Cards Against Humanity ;-)

Most of all, she welcomed me into her life, where I met Sir Steve, and Mary and Dana, and Frank and Brian, and Christine. *waves* 

Yes, I miss Jodi, but am very thankful I did not miss knowing her. 

Barb 

"Hold her to you, for she is part of you, as we all are part of each other." The Dark Crystal

Dear Mary & Dana,
Haven't seen Jodi for a while but we had some interesting conversation.I'm going to miss them.
   I just want you both to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers constantly. I'm at a loss for words that could possibly lift your spirits.
I am mourning with and for you.
  I also sympathize with her husband, Steve Test. Please let him know I send my condolences.
 With much Love,

Lloyd Williams [uncle]

Last Christmas when you told me we need to start taking our Christmas Eve walks again I never would have imagined that we would never get the chance. You were the best big cousin a girl could ask for. Growing up I have so many memories of us in the pool and watching Dirty Dancing then trying to perfect the final dance in the pool. Jodi you were an amazing woman and you will be missed by so many people

When we met, it was as if I had found a personality clone of myself. We talked for hours about books, movies, books, food, and books. You were an amazing person with a huge heart and a refreshingly familiar self-deprecating sense of humor. I regret not knowing you longer, but at least I get to count myself among the lucky that knew you. You are greatly missed.

Jodi:  She who was the best dressed at my wedding last year, she who was a fellow mutant when I joined the mutant class in 7th grade, she who has been a truly unique individual who has left an indelible mark on so many lives - she who will be missed.  My heart goes out to those who are feeling her passing.

May the long time Sun shine upon you, all love surround you, and the pure light within you guide your way on.

I will miss those times of chatting with you and gaming with you Jodi, I will remember you each time I play a game and think of you fondly. I only knew you through the internet, but you have been a very wonderful friend. I hope and plan to keep getting with our friends to game in the remembrance of you. 

Keith L. Bailey AKA Ranae/HydraRider

I knew Jodi because she was my cousin Christine's best friend for as long as I can remember. She was always the brightest light. Not a drop of Malice in her. And that smile, so mischievous and cunning. I can't believe I'll never see it again. I take solace in knowing that in her short time with us she found something some don't find in a whole lifetime... True love. My heart is with you Steve, and her parents as well...

My condolences for your loss. I knew Jodi in Middle School and even though it was for a short time, and a long time ago, I already knew she was such a sweet, kind, and creative person.    I count myself very lucky to have gotten to reconnect with her again on online while I was able to.  Steve I can tell that yours and Jodi's love was truly special and I am sorry for your loss.   My thoughts and prayers for your families.

This was my eulogy to Jodi.  It was meant to be read aloud, so it does not read quite normally as basic prose.  Still, I think it is worth putting here in its original form.

"First, I want to thank everyone for being here.  I never, ever thought I'd be up here.  Jodi was supposed to be too stubborn to let this happen.  But this is a celebration of her life, and a time to remember all the wonderful things she did with us, and for us.
I know everyone here has fabulous memories of this woman, and here are a small sampling of mine.

Whenever anyone asks me about when I met Jodi I tell them â€œIn kindergarten, we found letter people together!â€  (For those of you who don't know:  letter people are exactly what they sound like: blow up figures in the shapes of letters that have be anthromorphized to look vaguely human like, and are meant to help kids learn the alphabet.)  Now finding letter people doesn't sound like much, but the kid who found the letter person each week in class was kind of a big deal.  Jodi and I were in the little corner classroom â€œlibraryâ€ and we found not just one, but three.  We were kinda rockstars that day.  Now I know that I met Jodi prior to this, and I know that I interacted with her more that year too.  But this is the only memory that really sticks out of me and her that year. 

Looking back, it is more than just a little fitting that in my first memory of her we are surrounded by books.  

We went to different elementary schools and my next meeting with her was at a summer enrichment program (look: nerdy fun) right before middle school.  I'd like to say that she ran up to me, proclaimed â€œHey, I know youâ€ and I responded with a great big hug and a â€œI remember you too!â€  Sadlyâ€¦. Those of you who know the story know that's not quite how it wentâ€¦  She did run up to me with an excited â€œI know you!â€ but I (being the 11 year old little brat that I was) responded with : â€yeah, so?â€       I have apologized for this PROFUSELY in the intervening years.  But let me make another, very public apology.  Sorry Jodi!

Fortunately for me, Jodi is nothing if not persistent and eventually it dawned on me how truly awesome she was.  We became friends in middle school, and were truly best friends by high school.  I like to think we made that awkward, embarrassing, ridiculous phase of life more bearable for one another.  We were there for first boyfriends, and first breakups.  We were there for eachother's first cars.  She was a passenger in mine for my first wreck.  Oops. Maybe that contributed to her dislike of drivingâ€¦ Sorry (again) Jodi.
(I would like to throw in here that after that wreck Mary and Dana paid to have my car fixed.  So uh.. THANKS!  To be honest I think they just wanted to make sure I kept driving Jodi to school.  And that I made it to workâ€¦ for them.)

One thing I remember in particular that we did in high school was write stories.  We would brainstorm a basic â€œplotâ€ (I'm using the term very loosely) and some characters (basically we would each be older, way cooler versions of ourselves.  With boyfriends. And apartments.  And really awesome wardrobes.)  We would then each take turns writing a few pages, then pass it off to the other.  We never wrote anything that was really good, and the only point to this story is that even then it was obvious what a creative mind she had, and she also had a special talent for bringing out the creativity in others.

In subsequent years she put this creative talent to use in the games that she played, ran, and created, both on-line and in person.  Sadly, I can't speak with first-hand knowledge to how talented she was at this.  But based on what I've heard from others: she rocked it.

Although I can't speak to THIS nerdy aspect of her life there are numerous other nerd-doms that we spent many glorious hours (ok daysâ€¦ maybe  years) reveling in the fan-girl-ness of.
My husband describes Jodi as a â€œconnoisseur of visual entertainment,â€ I will go further and just say entertainment.  She knew her likes, her nerdy fandoms, very well.  She could speak on them with the authority of an academicâ€¦ And if you have ever had a conversation with her about any of these things, then you know: it was great!  

Just for purposes of nostalgia and entertainment I have assembled a list of her fandoms.  {Don't worry, it's not comprehensive, I know we need to leave the building eventually.}  These are just some of the games, books, and movies she knew and loved.  This is a celebration of her life and I'm asking for interaction here people!, so by quick applause, or a hand raise, or a â€œwooâ€ acknowledge if you ever shared this nerdy love with her, or she with you, or maybe (if as was often the case with me): if she sucked you into that world, despite your best efforts to stay out of it.

And don't worry. There is no judgement here.  I'm wearing a corset, and uncle Ken has found himself as a member of Slytheryn house!

Starting easy, and kinda old-school. 
Star Wars (and for reference: episodes 1-3 don't count, clearly)
Star Trek 
Disney Movies (and by this I mean you unabashedly roam around your house belting Disney songs)
Lord of the Rings
Serenity/Firefly
Dr. Who (Just want to say here- I marathoned 7 seasons of this show in a few weeks just so we would have something new and exciting to geek out about, and except for a few exclamation mark filled texts I never got a chance to, so I might be looking for a Dr. Who geek-out partner soon)
Cos Play (hint: if you are wearing any sort of costume here you must raise your hand)
Agents of Shield
Orange is the New Black
Big Bang Theory- Anyone wanna sing Soft Kitty?! [For the record: at this point I convinced the whole room to sing.]
Rocky Horror Picture Show
Renaissance Kingdoms
Pathfiner
Dragonlance
Sherlock
Musicals, particularly Wicked and Book of Mormon
Settlers of Katan
(The next two are Major Nerd Tests (and a little old school))
Magic the Gathering
Dungeons and Dragons
- I would like to take a moment here to thank Mary and Dana for tolerating YEARS of teenagers invading their house on a weekly basis, like a swarm of Mountain Dew, pizza, and Dorito-hungry locusts.  Actually, we never stopped invading the house in groups.  So thanks.
- Actually I'd like to thank them for being like second parents to me in general, not just tolerating me and feeding me, but they did that A LOT. 
Babylon 5
Battlestar Galactica
The Hunger Games
Now for the big 2, for me at least
Harry Potter (Yes, she is Slytheryn, and I am Ravenclaw, but we just proved that interhouse friendships can flourish)
Game of Thrones

We will all be left with many wonderful memories of Jodi.  And for years to come it will be IMPOSSIBLE to turn on the TV, go to a movie theater, or walk into a bookstore without thinking of her and smiling, and maybe bursting into silly laughter for no apparent reason.  She will bring comfort and happiness from afar to all of us.

I know this, but I am selfish, and I want her back.

I want to spend more pajama-clad evenings lounging around her living room, being forced to watch musicals, allowing myself to be sucked into Sherlock, or (best of all) spending more time than two grown-up women have any right to discussing Game of Thrones theories.  I want to see the look on Steve's face when he would walk into the living room, realize that 5 hours later Jodi and I were still geeking out to Game of Thrones, roll his eyes, and walk out.  I want to stay up late, downing coffee and watching random crap on YouTube with her, while we laugh that laugh of 3am delirium.  I want more trips to Bubba Gump's so we can plow through pounds of shrimp.  

But at least I was able to do those things with her.  I am sad they won't happen again, but I am even sadder for the plans we made that will now never come to fruition.  We were supposed to go to the next Harry Potter park opening week, like we did with the last one.  She was supposed to fly up and join me for the Winds of Winter release (whenever George RR Martin got around to releasing it, that is).  We were supposed to fly to Canada and harass Barb.  We were supposed to grow old, and wrinkly together, and whine about all the things going wrong with our bodies well into our 80s.  We were going to be the old ladies who sat on the front porch of the retirement  home, sneaking bottles of wine between our bottles of ensure.  

It seems the universe had other plans though.

To Jodi I want to say: Thank you.  Thank you for being my best friend, and for allowing me to unabashedly be ME around you, while you were unabashedly YOU around me.  I am grateful for the 29 years I have known you, for the 21 years you have been my best friend, and for the past 3 where harsh reality made me fully grasp what an incredible, awesome gift that has been."

Thank you for those of us who joined us this day as we honored the memory of my sister, Jodi.    For those who attended the service:
My Eulogy:  Let me first apologize as I try to get through this. Jodi was always that person who can stand up at any setting and say a few words or read something someone wrote, I am the emotional one.     
I hope everyone got a Team Jodi pen today. If you didn't please give me your information and I will get one to you if we run out here.  Please don't put it away somewhere, use it and when you do, just think of her. Use it until the ink runs out and if you ever need another one, just contact one of us for a replacement.  
As you can tell there is nothing usual or traditional about this or our family. Look around and take in everything you see.  Jodi would want us to celebrate her life instead of making this a somber occasion.  This will probably be one of those events you won't soon forget. When you look back and finally take it all in, you will remember Jodi and that's what she'd want.  She would have a good laugh and love this.  I can see her smiling down on us now and know she's mad she couldn't wear her armor today and dress up with the rest of you.  
Some of the things I loved best about Jodi was she was not embarrassed by things. She was meant to be a performer.  She didn't care if what people thought or how she looked or what she wore.  The world was her stage. She was in Edgewater's drama club and I remember watching her play a part in the school's play , Oz. That play was one of the best shows I'd ever seen and not just because she was in it. It was simply an amazing production. She was also one of those rare Rennebu's that could take the mic and actually sing at Karaoke. If you listen to our family sing Happy Birthday or anything else for that matter, you'd know what I'm talking about. She was just learning to play the electric guitar. It sounded a lot better than our dad's air guitar ever did. 
 If you were around us long enough, you'd know we'd she always found a way to injure herself. I used to make fun of her cause she was such a klutz. I was probably more of a klutz than she was, but I'll never admit that.  One memory  that stands out for me was our 1st Rennebu Family Reunion trip we took to New Hampshire. Who knew it would take 2-3 days to get out of Georgia by car if your sister has to stop every 10 â€“ 15 minutes for a pitstop.  Well...  a month later, we finally made it to New Hampshire.  This was the first time I got to spend any time with her boyfriend Steve.   At the reunion we played all kind of games and they became competitive.   I can't recall most of the games we played but the egg toss game will always stand out in my mind. We all paired up in twos and began tossing our eggs.  Of course you know someone from the Florida Rennebu's were going to win it. To my surprise Steve and Jodi were one of the last three teams left.  Our fate riding on them to bring home the win, Steve throws the egg back to Jodi as she steps up to catch it and twists her ankle in dramatic fashion. It seemed like it was one of those falls you put into slow motion. As she fell in pain Steve ran  over to her aid as fast as he could. I knew then that she had her protector by her side and she would be in good hands and be there to catch her when she falls.  and for everything else,      there's always ace wraps, Band-Aids, and crutches.  
Thank goodness she met Christine.  Christine is one of those friends you have for life. I thought we would all be stuck hanging out with her imaginary friends, Chaka and Booty. Christine is an honorary member of our family. She loved you very much as was so very proud of you and all your accomplishments as we all our Dr. Pham. I can't say enough what your friendship meant to her.  
Our family always seems to find humor an anything or try to make light of any subject. We like to make people laugh or smile. It is just our way of dealing with things and try to make someone feel better.  When she developed breast cancer and had a mastectomy, we'd joke back and forth about that what she could get to replace the one she had removed.  Things like Machine gun jubblies or making it into a refillable flask so she could always have a drink with her. This would replace one of her hats that holds beer cans with straws on it. We'd talk or text with different ideas.  I know this weighed heavily on her mind and if I could make her smile or chuckle I would.  She even joked about getting one replaced with 2 to pay homage to the tri-breasted lady in the movie Total Recall.  I mean who else do you know who throws a bye-bye booby party? 


Jodi hosted a gaming night every Sat. night for as far back as I remember at the house.  This group would play board games like D&D and other fantasy games and are still playing on to this day. Over the years I've meet most of the group here and there but I never really got to really know you.  Thank you guys for making her Saturday nights fun. I'd also like to tell my parents how much Jodi appreciated both of you for allowing her to have her friends over ever weekend. How many other parents would put up with a bunch of kids coming  over every weekend night and playing till all hours of the night? 
Jodi started teaching and hosting on-line gaming parties on some of the other nights and met a lot of people doing this. She would plan to have people from all over meet up with her and Steve at gaming or comic conventions in Orlando or Jacksonville. Two of these people they met, both from different states, even fell in love and got married.   Jodi loved going to these shows and loved to dress up. The more they went  the more elaborate their costumes became.  If you ever went to a comic con, you'd know what I'm talking about. 
Right out of her treatment with cancer she embarked in a two week cancer camp for survivors. She found some amazing people and continued to stay in touch with them. I think being there she found more of a determination to enjoy life more and start doing things she wanted to do. 
One person that she met on-line and spoke about was Barb. She set out to go visit her in Canada and even flew off by herself even as she was still weak and recovering from treatments . Man I'm glad she opted not to get one of those implants I mentioned earlier. Could you imagine the look on the full body scanner  operator face at the airport? Let's not even discuss customs and trying to get in and out of Canada. I didn't get a chance to meet her when she came down to visit Jodi but the rest of the family did and I wish I had.  
I would also like to thank one of her high school and gaming friend, as well as Steve's, Shawn for staying with Steve overnight multiple times at the hospital this last battle she fought. To me that is a loyal and true friend and I want to personally thank you for being there to help support Steve and Jodi in their time of need. 
It's amazing how much one forgets and then something just triggers certain memories.  Jodi is not one of those people to forget once you meet her. She always found a way to embrace what she had. When the chemo started making her hair fall out â€“ she pick up a razor and shaved it off Demi Moore style and approached life like GI Jane. I think she realized the top of her head probably needed a little bit of shade from the sun.  She starting buying all different types of hats and wigs to play with. She got a purple wig that looked really good on her. As she wore them, her thought was, if people are going to look, I'll give them something to look at. So when you see someone wearing a funny hat or colored wig, think of her.
Think of her and smile. I can see her now with that unique smile she always seemed to have.   Jodi, I love you and will miss you dearly. You will always be with me in my heart and soul.  

  
Hasa Diga Eebowai

Thank you 
Steve

My dearest, dearest Jodi......the shock of losing you is still so painful and unreal, I can't believe you have left us!  My heart hurts so much for your mom, dad, brother, and husband.  I can't see how they will draw a breath again for a long time without the memory of you touching them,and enveloping them, but you are loved, so very loved and will be forever!  I will always remember your courage, tenacity, and strength.  I love you and miss you.

Dearest Jodiah, I can't believe you will not be with us. It seems so unreal. I will remember all the good times spent with you when you were younger and the places we went to. You were so very talented and creative. I am so glad you were able to visit Jon and I in March this year. I keep rerunning the visit in my mind.  What a strong, brave and fearless women you became. I was so proud to know this.  You were loved by so many people and that is a such an incredible legacy to leave behind. Until we meet again you will be missed. Love you much!!! Aunt Lois, Uncle Jon and cousin Joshua.

Jodi, Our Jodi, Oh my... How we are all going to miss you so very much. Words can not say how much we are hurting right now, that you have left us. We love you so much for just being you, that is something special. You always seem to have a quiet sense about you, that made us pause and smell the roses. On the other hand, you could take charge and lead us in the right direction. Oh how we loved watching you put on your little shows for us, when you were a little girl. We could watch you all day, if you gave us a break once in a while. We will always remember all those special times we had together. You will always be with us in Mind, Heart and Soul and we know you will be waiting for us, to let us know everything will be okay. Until we are all together again someday. We Love You So Very Much, Forever and Ever

Hi, Steven, 
My thoughts and prayers are with you and Jodi's family.  Even though Jodi can no longer be with you in person, her spirits and love for you will always be there. Jodi will be sorely missed.

Jodi, thank you for meaning so much to my brother, son, and the many I know who knew you.   Your pictures tell the story of one who lived much in a short span.   You are already greatly missed.  My deepest condolences to your family and friends.  Thank you for being a soul mate to Steve, and until you are together with him again, Godspeed.

I just read it in the paper on Thursday.  Steve, I am sorry you lost your little sister. My heart goes out to you and your family. I didn't know her, but the pictures of her are beautiful.

In my memory Jodi will always be young, with a bright intelligence, a sharp wit, an abiding love for Steve, and a fierce desire to live.

I know I didn't know you as well as most, but my happiest memories have been us just sitting and talking about anything under the sun at ACC.  That, and the hijinks we'd cause in the 'verse.  

My heart goes out to Steve's and Jodi's family and friends.  You will always be in our hearts Jodi.  Until we meet again...keep on flying.

Although I have known you since middle school we did not really speak well until just a few years ago. I feel that that was such time wasted. However, I must say how happy I am that we connected as you are one of the most truly inspirational people I have ever met. There is not a more fierce warrior than you my dear. Much love to your family and friends.

My Dearest Sweetest Love,
You knew my favorite credo is "A Knight is sworn to Valor." I never truly understood what that meant until now. Valor is choosing to live on when your best reason for living has been taken from you. I believe that we are destiny and that our love will survive all. I remind myself every day that you should be here and ask God every day to somehow bring you back to me. But if this is not his will, know that you loved me more than anyone could possibly deserve and that I shall always respect, admire and adore you. Should all else fail, I will find you again in the place where no shadows fall. Your lover, your friend, Your Estabon

You left this world much to soon. Thank you for making my brother the happiest man in the world. The world has lost a great person in body but never in spirit. The memories I have of time spent with you and my brother Steve shall live on with in me for my life. It was my honor to have known such a kind and caring soul. May God bless you, Steve, and your family.

Words can't describe the honor it has been to know you. You will be missed by many, but your memory will not be lost to time. Fare thee well til we meet again my friend.

Anthony R. Helm

I did not really know you well, but I remember a happy girl.. Bless your family and be their strength in this time of remembering.

Kathleen Wilson

It is difficult to convey the entire gamut of emotions and empathy I feel for Steve and Jodi's family and friends. It was my honor and joy to stand with Steve when he and Jodi married. Two souls that exemplified 'meant for each other.' I will miss our too few discussions about the attributes of various fictional universes. My most heartfelt condolences to family and friends.

 My Dear your wit and humor are are the things that I will miss from you not to mention your great advice on books and movies but I guess ever the adventurer you had to be first to lead the way for the rest of us.  I will miss you Jodi I am so blessed I got to know you and you will be forever immortal in my heart.

How do you say good-bye to one of the most wonderful, joyful people you have ever known?  Guess it's not good-bye, just .... see you later....

Sue Greenman

Jodi was one of my best friends. The world will be a lot less bright without her cheer lighting up the place. She will be missed greatly.

I am honored to say that I knew Jodi. I was honored to be at her side when she married Steve. I will see you again my friend, and I cannot wait to hear the stories you have to tell, and join the game you have running! So save me a spot at your table, my friend.

I didn't know Jodi as well as I did her family that I grew up with.  However, through contact on the web I came to realize what a special person she was.  She had such a great sense of humor and enjoyed life to it's fullest.  I feel confident that when she entered the gates of Heaven there were trumpets playing and angels singing.  What a fantastic day for her!  She will be rejoicing while she waits to meet her loved ones again.  What wonderful memories she has left behind for all of us.  My condolences to Mary, Dana, Steve and husband Steve as well as the rest of the family who love her so much.

Jodi was an incredible friend, a truly wonderful person. We will miss her immensely.

Jodi not only was a beloved family friend, but also worked for me for almost 2 years at the Courthouse.She was patient and empathetic in working with the court cases and clients and innovative in her work with computers. Always kind and friendly to everyone she was a joy to be around. She will be missed by many.

so sorry that this happened  mary kobus winter park fla.

I am glad I was able to be part of Jodi and Steve's wedding, and to get to know her. I know there will be a hole left behind forever in her passing.

The world lost a creative, imaginate soul when you passed. The world is a sadder place without you. You will always have a special place in my heart my dear Jodi, will always love and miss you......Uncle Ken

OBITUARY

Jodi Michelle Rennebu-Test

November 3, 1978 – June 20, 2014

Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home

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