Rena Jo Fudge

Rena Jo Sandlin Fudge (Jo), beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted friend, passed peacefully from this life on May 3, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, leadership, and love. Born on September 16, 1935, in Holdenville, Oklahoma, she was the cherished daughter and namesake of Rena Jo Livingston Sandlin, sharing not only her mother’s name but also her birthday, a bond that remained a special part of her story throughout her life. She was also the daughter of Senator Hugh Martin Sandlin.

She began her educational journey in Holdenville, attending Holdenville High School before graduating from Monticello Preparatory School in Alton, Illinois. She later earned her degree from the University of Oklahoma and pursued an additional year of graduate study at the University of Central Oklahoma.

Throughout her life, Jo distinguished herself through civic leadership, business accomplishment, and dedicated community service. She was co-founder of Credit Collections, Inc., where her entrepreneurial spirit and professional leadership left a lasting impact. She remained active in trade associations and was deeply involved in numerous organizations that reflected her passions for faith, education, patriotism, and fellowship. A devoted member of Christ the King Catholic Church, she also gave generously of her time to St. Vincent de Paul and St. Lawrence Ministry. Her many affiliations included Delta Delta Delta sorority, Golden Circle (past president), Oklahoma City Republican Women (past president), Freedom Foundation of Valley Forge (past treasurer), Red Bud Women’s Club, Duplicate Bridge Club, Monday Mahjong, and Book Club (past president).

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Thomas H. Taylor and Jack D. Fudge; her beloved son, Bradley Vance Fudge; and her sister, Dora Dell Sandlin Roberts.

She is survived by her loving children: Jack Dryer Fudge Jr. (Terri), John Martin “Chip” Fudge (Shannon), Jennifer Taylor, and Hugh H. Fudge (Amy); her beloved sister, Martha Faye Sandlin; and a treasured legacy through her grandchildren: Holly Neito (Justin), Meredith Milligan Dick, Taylor Fudge (Colette), Walker Milligan (Anna Hulkower), John Saunders, Emily Saunders, Kathryn Murphy (Chris), Kristyn Fudge (Clara de Lataillade), Curran Fudge (Marymar), Elizabeth Fudge (Micah Sherman), Jacob Fudge (Katie), Sara Almeida (Kevin), Madeline Fudge, Luke Fudge, Charles Fudge, and Elizabeth Conrad, as well as 16 great-grandchildren who brought her immense pride and joy.

She will be laid to rest beside her husband Jack at Resurrection Memorial Cemetery in Oklahoma City.

Her life was defined by devotion to family, enduring friendships, steadfast faith, and a deep commitment to making her community better. She will be remembered for her grace, intelligence, laughter, and the countless lives she touched through kindness, leadership, and service.

“Death is nothing at all. It does not count. I have only slipped away into the next room… All is well.”

Though she is no longer seen, her love remains ever-present—just round the corner—in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the St. Lawrence Ministry at Christ the King Church.  

Visitation for Jo will be held Saturday May 9, 2026 at Smith and Kernke 23rd Street from 2-6. Mass of Christian burial will be held Monday May 11, 2026 at Christ the King Catholic Church at 10:30AM with burial to follow at Resurrection Cemetery.