Rena Marie Friend

Rena Marie Friend, 74, beloved wife and mother, from Marietta, Ohio, ascended to the loving arms of Jesus on May 19th, 2024 at Marietta Memorial Hospital after a courageous and hard-fought 18 month battle with cancer. She was born May 6th, 1950 in Marietta, Ohio to the late Rosemarie and Carl Cassady and was raised in Williamstown, WV.

She was married to the love of her life, Roy Friend, on May 8th, 1981. As a devout Christian, Rena was an active and faithful member of the Marietta Church of God. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her brother Terry Linn Cassady, sister Gladys Virginia Strother, and step-daughter Donna Lassiter.

She is survived by her husband of 43 years Roy Friend, son Bruce Cassady (Victoria) of Marietta, Ohio, brother Richard Wade Cassady of Alaska, grandchildren Abigail Cassady of Marietta, and Christina Friend of Lubeck, WV, close and special nephew Kevin Sunderman of Vincent, Ohio. Rena also leaves behind an entire congregation of friends in Christ whom she lovingly cherished.

In accordance with Rena’s wishes there will be no viewing or funeral services. She will be laid to rest at East Lawn Memorial Park in Reno, OH. McClure-Schafer-Lankford Funeral Home is assisting the family and messages of sympathy may be sent at www.Lankfordfh.com.

The family would like to thank Amedysis, and the staff at Marietta Memorial Hospital for their compassionate and dedicated care during her most difficult times. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider helping someone in need, in memory of Christ’s love for all people.