Celebration of Life Tribute for Renaye Johnson

I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. ~ Maya Angelou

For those of you who knew her, this quote is very true of Renaye! She made us all feel loved, made us feel that what we did mattered, and made us laugh. She encouraged us in all we attempted and applauded our successes…big and small.

For CAA, Renaye was our heartbeat as well as an outstanding artist. She is responsible for acquiring both our galleries where our member’s art is displayed: Gallery CAA at Centre Concord and Gallery CAA at the Concord Visitor Center. Renaye was the first to volunteer whenever a need arose and could be seen with her toolbox, hanging the art shows.

In 2025, Renaye stepped up to help lead the CAA Board Zoom meetings, all while still taking the minutes of the meetings as our Secretary. We noticed that Renaye’s coffee mug was always present during these meetings.

Her laughter and sense of humor was always present. She was a blessing in every life she touched and we miss her. So many times we still find ourselves saying, “Ask Renaye” or “Renaye will know what to do!” We are so thankful that Renaye was in our lives and we will always cherish the memories we made with her. Memories of her friendship, laughter and kind, caring words are forever etched in our hearts.

CAA has established “The Renaye Johnson Concord Art Association Visual Arts Scholarship” for graduating seniors at Clayton Valley Charter High School, where her daughter was a student. This scholarship will be awarded to further the recipient’s art education, keeping the memory of Renaye and her love of art alive. Donations can be made to this scholarship fund in memory and to honor Renaye. If you would like to donate to the scholarship, please visit the Donate to CAA page.

A selection of Renaye’s Paintings is on display at the Concord Public Library from October 1 through December 30, 2026. When you enter the library, look to your left for the display case to enjoy the art of a beloved person!

By Pat McDermont

President, CAA