Renee Rachelle Abel, 68, of Willow Park, Texas, died Aug. 12, 2026. Mrs. Abel loved spending time with family and friends and especially loved her trips to the beach. Her home was considered a welcoming place for family, friends and those in need. She had a special gift for making people feel at home and reminding them that they belonged.
She had a deep love for children and dedicated much of her life to helping them learn, grow and succeed. She earned her master’s degree in education from Fontbonne University and spent much of her career serving children as a special education teacher, reading specialist and tutor. She was known for her patience, compassion and dedication to the children she taught. She will be remembered for her fierce love of family, her generous spirit and her warmth. Born Aug. 1, 1958, she was the daughter of Sue Dugan of Kirkwood and the late Harry Dugan Sr.
She is survived by her husband of 48 years: Gregory Abel of Willow Park, Texas; a daughter: Jennifer Schmaltz (Derrick) Croft of Fort Worth, Texas; a son: Casey (Lauren) Abel of Weatherford, Texas; four grandchildren: Katie (Kyle) Gowen of De Soto, Adam (Cora) Poliette of Hillsboro, Hudson Rose Abel and Hollis Renee Abel; four great-grandchildren: Jace, Everleigh, Kenlie and Kenna; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by a brother: Harry Dugan Jr.
Visitation is scheduled from 3 p.m. until a celebration of life at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, at Chapel Hill Mortuary, Robert Brown Chapel, 103 Fourth St., in Hillsboro. Arrangements are under the direction of Chapel Hill Mortuary, Robert Brown Chapel.