Joyce Marie (Esposito) Rener, age 71, of Danbury, CT died Wednesday, October 13, 2021, at Danbury Hospital.

She was born in Danbury on March 25, 1950, daughter of the late Pasquale and Josephine (Blonski) Esposito. She was a lifelong Danbury resident who adored animals and rescued countless stray kittens, cats, puppies, dogs, turtles and even a family of worms during her idyllic childhood on Padanaram Avenue (aka "Chicken Hill"). Joyce attended St. Joseph School, graduated from Danbury High School and was a talented tapdancer and even a "Dancing Doll" in 1957. Throughout her life, Joyce was a passionate collector of antiques and amateur photographer. She was also interested in science fiction, politics and conspiracy theories. After becoming a grandmother in 2002, Joyce dedicated most of her time and resources to dutifully spoiling her two grandchildren, Peter M. and Eliot M. Alonzo of Danbury who referred to her using a word they created together: "Pawu." She was also a fur-Mom to beloved dogs including KeeKoo, Muffin, Max and Harley.

Joyce is survived by her daughter: Melanie M. Keenan and her husband, John F. Keenan of Danbury and her two brothers: Gerald Esposito of New Hartford and Patrick Esposito of New Fairfield.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Joseph Church, Danbury, Monday, October 18, 2021, at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at St. Peter Cemetery, Danbury. There are no calling hours.