Renée Francingues Leva passed away on September 9, 2026, leaving behind a family who loved her deeply and a lifetime of memories that reflect the vibrant, creative, loving woman she was.

Born on October 28, 1953, to Norman and Marion Francingues, Renée grew up with her three brothers, Ronald, Norman, and Kenny. In her younger years, she was a cheerleader, something she always remembered fondly. She loved to dance, enjoyed a good party, and especially loved when those good times were shared with family.

Renée married David Leva on April 11, 1980, beginning a marriage that would span 46 years and a life and family they built together through all the seasons those years brought.

Creativity was simply part of who Renée was. She loved making things with her own hands, decorating and redecorating her home, gardening, and keeping her yard beautiful and pristine. Over the years, she even dug and built several ponds herself. She was also a scrapbooker, preserving family photographs and memories in pages that have become treasured keepsakes. She loved the color purple and adored red roses.

More than anything, Renée loved to celebrate people. Birthdays were never simply another day on the calendar. She filled tables with balloons, plants, favorite foods, snacks, and little gifts chosen especially for the person being celebrated. She paid attention to what people loved and found genuine joy in making them feel special.

Family was at the heart of Renée’s life. She was the mother of Jacqueline Pecoul, Julie Leva, and Gina Keopp, and Nana Nae to Jaxon, Leah, Aiden, Reece, Caleb, Elijah, and Malachi. She loved her family deeply.

Renée also had a lifelong love for her puppies. There was rarely a time when a beloved dog wasn’t part of her life, and every one of them was thoroughly loved—and thoroughly spoiled.

Anyone who spent much time with Renée probably heard her suddenly quote a line from a movie and enthusiastically demand, “Name that movie!” It was one of those little things that was simply Renée and will continue to bring smiles to her family’s faces for years to come.

Her faith was an important part of her life. Renée’s favorite hymn was Amazing Grace, and her favorite Scripture was Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

Renée is survived by her husband of 46 years, David Leva; her daughters, Jacqueline Pecoul (Perry), Julie Leva (Bradley), and Gina Keopp (Keith); her grandchildren, Jaxon, Leah, Aiden, Reece, Caleb, Elijah, and Malachi; her brothers, Norman Francingues (Sharon) and Kenny Francingues (Joanne); her six nieces and nephews, including her beloved goddaughter, Maryann; her many great-nieces and great-nephews; and extended family and friends who loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Norman and Marion Francingues, and her brother, Ronald Francingues.

Renée will be remembered most of all for the way she loved.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Long Beach, MS, while family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation that begins at 10:00 am. A reception will be held following Mass at approximately 12:00 pm at the church.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Long Beach, is honored to serve the Leva family. An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com .