The Life of Mrs. Jean E. Renjilian

Jean E. Renjilian, 84, died May 1, 2020, of COVID-19, after a brief hospital stay. She was born in Framingham, Mass., in 1935, daughter of the late Franklin D. MacCormick and Margaret Chalmers MacCormick.

She graduated from Oberlin College in 1957 and received a MS degree from the University of Bridgeport in 1975. She lived in Newtown since 1970, most recently at Maplewood Senior Center. Jean was cofounder of The Counseling Center in Danbury in 1976 and principle of Collaborative Consulting, Newtown. She co-authored several articles, including a chapter on Strategic Planning in the American Management Association’s Human Resources Management and Development Handbook. She taught graduate and undergraduate courses at the University of Bridgeport, Dominican College, Norwalk Community College, and Quinnipiac College. She also led workshops for a variety of companies and nonprofits, including churches.

She is survived by two sons, Robert F. and Christy of York, Penn., and David and Erica of Clarks Summit, Penn.; four grandchildren, Thomas, Christina, Justin, and Jessica; a brother- and sister-in-law, John and Elaine Renjilian; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 56 years, Jeremiah H. Renjilian of Newtown; her brother Chalmers MacCormick of Aurora, N.Y. (Lili); and sister Margaret de Forest of Santa Barbara, Calif. (Kellam).

Jean was a gentle and kind woman, whose warmth was apparent upon meeting her. She was a deeply reflective woman, and a passionate reader. Jean took time to know something about everyone she met. She used her gifts to support her family, friends, and those with whom she worked.

A memorial service and family graveside service will be coordinated with the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Danbury, at the convenience of the family.

Contributions in memory of Jean Renjilian may be made to the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee, 689 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge MA 02139-3302, or to the charity of one’s choice.