INDIAN LAND, SC ~ Rene Conte, age 79, of Sun City Carolina Lakes, passed away on January 19, 2026. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Rene lived on Long Island for most of her adult life before retiring to Sun City Carolina Lakes where she resided for the last 12 years. Rene married her high school sweetheart, Jim, who served in the Vietnam War and later returned home to begin their life together. She was the youngest of the four daughters born to Persephone and Michael Koumides.

She was a career woman for many years, with jobs in advertising, real estate and more. She and Jim raised their daughter, Christine (Gerald), in East Northport, NY. Rene was a devoted YaYa to her three granddaughters Zoe, Sophie and Emma, who she adored.

Rene had many hobbies throughout her life; music was always at the forefront. She especially cherished singing in the church choir at St. Paraskevi. She also loved performing in plays and musicals at Sun City, where she was an active and enthusiastic participant in the community. Traveling was one of Rene’s greatest passions. Her trip to Africa was a life-long dream come true. She and Jim loved to cruise the world together, visiting all kinds of places and always bringing back souvenirs for everyone.

Rene was a friend to all. She had a rare gift for seeing the good in people and making everyone feel welcome. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Rene courageously fought a difficult five-year battle with breast cancer. Her strength and grace remained evident throughout.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Tuesday, January 27th, 2026, from 1:00 - 3:00pm at the Lake House at Sun City Carolina Lakes (1353 Del Webb Blvd, Indian Land, SC). There will also be a Celebration of Life in her home state of New York in March. Details will be available on her Facebook page when they are confirmed.