Renée L. Sayers Zimmerman recently passed away in Las Cruces, New Mexico after a long and beautiful life. Born in 1921 to Renée and Mable Sayers of Gary, Indiana, she was the eldest of three daughters.
Renée graduated from St. Xavier College (now St. Xavier University) associated with Mercy Hospital in Chicago. Immediately after graduation, she joined the US Army as an officer and nurse, with her service in the Pacific Theater on Saipan during World War II. Renée met her future husband, George, in Tokyo. Their lives together began in New Mexico where Renée worked at the VA Hospital as a nurse in Albuquerque and George attended UNM Law School. They eventually moved to Carrizozo, Ruidoso and then spent the next 50 years together in Alamogordo raising a family.
Renée was a very active member of the community, especially with Friends of the Library, as a Girl Scout leader and Red Cross swimming instructor. She was Executive Director of the Red Cross (Alamogordo) during the Viet Nam War and aided many military personnel and their families. Her work as a charter member of the Pan American Roundtable chapter in Alamogordo was very much appreciated. An avid supporter of their many educational programs, Renée was a 50+ year member of P.E.O. Sisterhood. Renée and George travelled the world together. Renée was a lifelong learner who loved reading, entertaining, chocolate, Paris and always looking her best.
Renée is survived by her three daughters; Annette (Tom), Charlotte, and Rebecca (Francisco); Three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, her two sisters and a grandson.
Renée was greatly loved by her family and friends from near and far. Her final resting place is Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Las Cruces, New Mexico. A private family memorial service is planned.
Published in Alamogordo Daily News from Oct. 25 to Oct. 26, 2018
