FEB 17 th DEC 4 th
VOLUNTEER
YOUNG INSURANCE
WHAT WE DO:
Host EPIC Social Events such as the Charity Corn Hole Tournament and Happy Hours
Volunteer with local charities
Dedicated to help any insurance professional start or further their career
MEETING
Our mission is to empower our young insurance professionals with education, inspiration and opportunities that provide a platform to help launch their career and gain success! Our education, marketing, events and complete structure is focused on the Young Insurance Professional.
We encourage more experienced colleagues to get involved with our cause as well, great leadership and mentors are always welcome! No age restrictions, our committee is a team of individuals working together for a common cause. Our team is like a family, come and be apart of it!
Monthly meetings @ 2:30 PM via ZOOM
For more info contact, macy@blitzinsurance.com
COMMITTEES 2025 - 2026
are what breaths life into our association. With 9 active committees there are at least 100 people actively serving the association with their unique skills. We are always looking to put your skills to use, to further drive the association’s mission forward. No matter what your skills are, or what you are passionate about, we likely have something of interest to you. The end result is to better the industry we all serve. Join a Committee today and become part of the mission.
Charitable Projects/ Fire Poster Chairman: Kathryn Noser
Education, I.T., CE
Houston Insurance Day
Chairman: Matt Romano
Vice Chairman: Nancy Eugenio Vice Chairman: Carmen Swift
Legislative
Chairman: Kyle Dean
Vice Chairman: Wes Kurtz
IMPACT
Chairman: Wes Kurtz
Recreation
Chairman: Carisa Cole Vice Chairman: Steven Sprague
Young Insurance Professionals
Chairman: Macy Bennett
Vice Chairman: Grant Pierce
PR/Media Matters
Chairman: Scott West
Social Media
Chairman: Daphne Clark Vice Chairman: Cassie Shanks
Houston Insurance News
Chairman: Amy Weimer Vice Chairman: Cassie Shanks
ANNUAL SPONSORS
Titanium Elite Sponsors
Imperial PFS
Burns & Wilcox, Ltd.
CRC Group
Vintage Underwriters
Platinum Partners for Excellence
Brown & Riding
RT Specialty
Texas Mutual Insurance
WSG Specialty Underwriters
Gold Patron Sponsors
Chubb
Jencap
Travelers
WRIGHT Flood
New Affiliate Members
Bass Underwriters
Brecht & Associates
Blitz Insurance Group
ia Blueprint
Univista Insurance
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Susan Zipperer
Ryan Beavers
Angela Delap
Robert Oncken
Faith Boren
David Wuthrich
Jason Knecht
Chris Dowling
Tom Fitzpatrick
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Treasurer
Treasurer Elect
Secretary
Past Chairman
Affiliate Liaison
Affiliate Liaison
Matthew Erskin
Sam Houston
Matt Leicht
Charles McDade
Kathryn Noser
William Peachey
Jesse Serna
Daniel Shearer
BOARD OF DIRECTORS STAFF
David Wuthrich
Ayla Comuyog
Shelby Hibbard
Deb McRae
Keaton Sumicek
Wes Weatherred
Blake Wellmann
President & CEO
Sr. Managing Director
Managing Director
Advertising
November 26, 2025
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! I give thanks every day for our wonderful staff and members! You make this job fun!!
Thanks to all who have participated in our events this fall. We have had great turnouts for Cornhole, Pickleball and Fall Golf. We could not have done it without you, so be sure to come again the next time and bring a friend. I promise that they will have a wonderful time. Our monthly charitable events have been a huge success. Thanks to all who have participated and please check the calendar because I know that we have another event coming up in December and it is a really fun one!!
Please join us for the IIAH Holiday Party on Thursday, December 4th from 3 to 6 pm at Kirby Icehouse on Gessner. It is a free event and it always has a great crowd. Let’s see if we can break the all time attendance record this year!! I have faith in you guys that we can do it!
I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy Holidays! I hope that everyone has a blessed and wonderful Holiday season and we look forward to seeing everyone at HID in February!
IIAH President & CEO David Wuthrich
Child Advocates recruits, trains and supports volunteers who provide a voice for children in foster care. As Harris County’s Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program, we provide lifesaving advocacy that helps abused and neglected children exit foster care to a safe, permanent home as quickly as possible.
Our volunteers’ main job is to provide the court with recommendations about where the children they represent should live on a permanent basis. Throughout the case, our volunteers maintain contact with everyone involved in the children’s lives, from foster parents, biological parents and therapists to Child Protective Services caseworkers and attorneys appointed by the court. They make sure the children are receiving the medical and psychological help they need, and they meet with teachers and principals to help the children thrive in school. They dry tears and give hugs and throw birthday parties, too. Most importantly, they serve as a 'constant' person for the children to count on during this tumultuous time. Essentially, our volunteers do whatever it takes to ensure that the needs of the children are being met while they are in care.
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Meet Your New E&S Partner: Blitz Insurance
Lightning-fast specialty insurance coverage for the risks others won’t touch.
When standard markets say “no,” your clients still need coverage—and they need it fast. That’s where Blitz Insurance comes in. As IIAH’s newest affiliate member, we’re here to be your go-to E&S partner for small commercial risks that don’t fit the usual mold.
No more waiting weeks for quotes or chasing underwriters for updates. Our lightning-fast quoting process gets you answers quickly, so you can move deals forward and keep clients happy. We know timing is everything in this business.
Streamlined From Start to Finish
Our digital-first platform eliminates the usual E&S headaches. Simple submissions, rapid market access, and the right overages at the right limits—without the runaround. We’ve built our process around what brokers actually need: efficiency without sacrificing service.
Expertise Where It Counts
We’re more than a carrier—we’re your agile partner for navigating complex risks. Our team cuts through underwriting red tape, anticipates roadblocks, and creates smarter solutions before issues arise. We specialize in the challenging accounts that keep you up at night—contractors with unique exposures, special events, builders risk, lessor’s risk, retail operations. No delays, no disappearing acts—just straightforward answers, rapid responses, and total transparency to keep your deals moving.
Coverage That Delivers
From General Liability and Product Liability to Property and Lessor’s Risk, Blitz offers comprehensive specialty lines for contractors, retail operations, special events, and more. Whether it’s a hard-to-place risk or a client with unique needs, we’re equipped to help.
Personal Service, Digital Speed
Behind our tech-enabled platform is a team that understands the broker experience. We combine digital efficiency with the personal attention your accounts deserve. When you need answers, explanations, or help navigating complex risks, we’re here. Ready to see what lightning-fast E&S placement looks like? We’d love to show you how Blitz can help you win more business and spend less time on placement headaches.
CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE
Susan Zipperer
szipperer@efgia.com
As we approach the end of another year, I’m filled with gratitude for the resilience, innovation, and compassion that define our community in the insurance industry. The holiday season offers a moment to reflect on the milestones achieved and the values that guide us forward.
This year was a continuation of navigating through a dynamic landscape, adapting to growing customer needs and embracing digital transformation. Through it all, the commitment to protecting what matters most has remained firm.
The holidays remind us of the power of giving. I’m excited about our upcoming charitable initiatives, which include Brookwood Community Poinsettia Sleeving on December 4 th , B.I.G. Love – Santa Dash Fun Run on December 7 th , and Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP) on January 15th. Whether it’s supporting local charities or volunteering time and resources, these efforts embody the spirit of the season—and the heart of our organization. These and future initiatives make a meaningful impact beyond business.
As we look ahead to a new year, let us carry forward the momentum, the mission, and the mindset that have brought us this far. I wish you all a joyful, peaceful, and safe holiday season.
Susan Zipperer
IIAH Chairman 2025-2026
Do All Insurance Agencies Need E&O Coverage? Why Every Agency Should Revisit Its Own
Risk Management Strategy
The short answer?
If you advise, sell, quote, service, or manage insurance for clients, E&O protection is one of the most important coverages you can carry.
What Is E&O Insurance — and Why Does It Matter?
Errors and omissions insurance, also referred to as professional liability insurance, is designed to help shield insurance agencies from claims of:
Incorrect advice
Failure to procure appropriate coverage
Negligence or oversight
Miscommunications or administrative errors
Other professional shortcomings that may result in financial loss for a client
The Real Risks of Operating Without E&O Insurance
In an increasingly litigious environment, E&O insurance functions as a core safeguard that protects not only your agency, but also your staff, your clients and your long-term growth. Some agencies consider going without E&O coverage especially newer or smaller firms trying to manage expenses. But the financial and reputational risks can be significant:
1. Costly Out of-Pocket Expenses
Defense costs for professional liability claims can quickly reach tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, even if your agency ultimately did nothing wrong.
2. Reputational Damage
A single lawsuit can undermine client trust even if you’re cleared of wrongdoing.
3. Lost Business Opportunities
Many preferred carriers and high-value partners require current E&O limits to maintain appointments or access to certain markets.
4. Personal Financial Exposure
For agency owners, a lack of coverage may put personal assets at risk in the event of a serious claim.
Strengthening Your Agency’s Risk Management Strategy
At U.S. E&O Brokers, we believe that strong E&O protection is a foundational part of doing business as an insurance professional. Our team assists agencies throughout the Houston region and across Texas with assessing risk, reviewing compliance requirements and selecting coverage options that align with their size, specialties and goals.
Whether you’re newly established, expanding into new lines or simply due for a policy review, we encourage agencies to treat E&O coverage the same way we advise clients to treat their own insurance: as an essential tool for long-term stability and protection. If you have questions about coverage requirements, carrier expectations or how to structure a policy that fits your agency, our team is here to help.
About the Author
Amanda Fenn is a Vice President-Underwriting Leader with U.S. E&O Brokers, a division of Innovation Growth Partners Specialty, LLC, a leader in specialty insurance solutions across exclusive programs, wholesale brokerage and contract binding. With nearly 30 years of industry experience, Amanda has built her career around professional liability, specializing in helping midsized to large agencies secure tailored coverage to protect their operations, mitigate risk and support long-term growth.
STRAIGHT LISTING
Name, Address, Phone, Contact Email
FULL LISTING
Name, Address, Phone, Contact Email, and website address
PLATINUM LISTING
Name, Address, Phone, Contact Email, website address, and unlimited lines of business
PACKAGE LISTING
Name, Address, Phone, Contact Email, website address, unlimited lines of business, and company logo on the Calendar of Event page of IIAH site
50th Annual Fire Poster Contest Winners
Kindergarten
1st Place – Athena Halageri-Rao – Anne McCormick Sullivan Elementary
2nd Place – Erick Xiloj-Puac – Jessup Elementary
1st Grade
1st Place – Miranda Hardy - Jessup Elementary
2nd Place – Elizabeth Salgado – South Houston Elementary
2nd Grade
1st Place – Chloe Grace Stewart – Sienna Crossings Elementary
2nd Place – Calvin Beach – San Jacinto Elementary
3rd Grade
1st Place – Nathan Perez – South Houston Elementary
2nd Place – Loany Xiloj-Puac - Jessup Elementary
3rd Place – Julia Montemayor - Jessup Elementary
4th Grade
1st Place – Geetinder Kaur - Cornerstone Elementary
2nd Place – Alejandro Herrera – South Houston Elementary
3rd Place – Rebeca Rico – Thomas Hancock Elementary
5th Grade
1st Place – Fable Masone – Morris Middle School
2nd Place – David Mai – Morris Middle School
3rd Place – Ruby Salinas – Melillo Middle School
6th Grade
1st Place – Anabelle Quiroz – Strack Intermediate
2nd Place – Angeline Escobar – Wunderlich Intermediate
3rd Place – Guillermo Garcia – Morris Middle School
7th Grade
1st Place – Dominic Ranjith – Ronald Thornton Middle School
2nd Place – Nadiya Rodriguez - Wunderlich Intermediate
3rd Place – Minh Luong – Beverly Hills Intermediate
8th Grade
1st Place – Alyssa Moreno – Thompson Intermediate
2nd Place – Isabella Ferrufino – Beverly Hills Intermediate
3rd Place – Katelyn Pham – Beverly Hills Intermediate
9th Grade
1st Place – Maria Ranjith – Ridge Point High School
2nd Place – Deldnie Galaviz – Deer Park High School
3rd Place – Derri Ward – Deer Park High School
10th Grade
1st Place – Manuel Barrios - Dobie High School
2nd Place – Mia Gonzalez – Dobie High School
3rd Place – Andrew Rojas - Dobie High School
11th Grade
1st Place – Angela Arrendondo - Dobie High School
2nd Place – Abigail Ramirez – South Houston High School
3rd Place – Kayla Rosette – Deer Park High School
12th Grade
1st Place – Jorge Flores – South Houston High School
2nd Place – Kimberly Castillo - Dobie High School
3rd Place – Nelsy Munoz Quintanilla – South Houston High School
Bipartisan Legislation Introduced to Retroactively Restore NFIP COVERAGESPOTLIGHT
Two U.S. Congressmen, one a Democrat from Louisiana and the other a Republican from Mississippi, have introduced legislation to retroactively restore the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Congressmen Troy A. Carter, Sr., D-La., and Mike Ezell, R-Miss. introduced H.R. 5848, the NFIP Retroactive Renewal and Reauthorization Act, a bill that would reauthorize the NFIP through 2026 and include a retroactive renewal period for policyholders whose coverage expired during the government shutdown.
NFIP’s lapsed without congressional authorization as the federal government shutdown Oct. 1. New federal flood insurance policies have not been issued or renewed.
The 30-day grace period to renew policies expired for some policyholders at the end of October, meaning they could face partial-risk assessments and higher rates, Carter said.
If Congress does not enact a retroactive reauthorization, any new or renewed policies will only take effect on or after the date the program is reinstated. Policyholders could experience a lapse in coverage, leaving flood losses during that period uninsured.
“The lapse of the National Flood Insurance Program isn’t a partisan problem — it’s a people problem,” said Carter. “Families shouldn’t lose their coverage or face higher premiums because of political gridlock.” The premiums policyholders pay for flood insurance could go up significantly without a retroactive reauthorization, the congressmen said.
Under FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0, existing policyholders transition gradually to full-risk rates, but lapsed policies must pay those rates immediately upon reauthorization, according to Carter and Ezell’s offices.
“This lapse now threatens the premium increase glidepath guaranteed to legacy NFIP policyholders who have played by the rules,” said Michael Hecht, president & CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc., on behalf of the Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance (CSFI). “Our analysis of FEMA data shows that NFIP premiums under Risk Rating 2.0 are rising by over 100% on average and by at least 50% in 41 states.”
This year’s tournament is benefiting PTSD Foundation Of America-Camp Hope, Child Advocates and Covenant House Texas
A little rain didn’t stop the good times from rolling! What a great way to raise money, meet great people, and secure office bragging rights for the next year. Our members also got to meet and mingle with some folks from our charities Child Advocates and Camp Hope!
Congratulations to our winners
1st Place:
Blake Wellmann – Wellmann Insurance Agency
Ethan Stremmel – USI
2nd Place:
Adam Holtman
Warren Berlanga U.S. Risks
3rd Place:
Jason Tracy
Stan Hollibaugh Service Master TRS
️a HUGE thank you to our sponsors️
Venue Sponsor
Drink Sponsor Bag Sponsor
By: Regan Ellmer
IMPACT is the Political Action Committee of the Independent Insurance Agents of Texas. By contributing to IMPACT, you are supporting pro-business candidates who are looking out for agents’ interests in the Capitol. All of the money raised by IMPACT is contributed to candidates and campaigns that support the independent agent network
The Lone Star Economic Alliance (LSEA) is celebrating this week two major victories for Texas businesses across the state: a highly successful LSEA Day at the Texas State Capitol and the filing today of the LSEA-backed omnibus bill addressing nuclear verdicts (SB 30 by Sen. Charles Schwertner and HB 4806 by Rep. Greg Bonnen).
SB 30 and its companion HB 4806 are critical for Texas job creators and Texas families alike. Specifically, the legislation will help protect Texans from higher insurance costs; guarantee fair restitution for legitimate injuries; and create a legal environment that encourages medical providers to treat accident victims without fear of litigation abuse. Critically, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced that SB 30 is among his top 40 priority bills for the 2025 Texas Legislative Session.
A huge thank-you to everyone who came out and participated in our 3rd Annual Pickleball Tournament at Pickleball Social! It was an amazing day filled with fun, friendly competition, and great company.
Competitors faced off across three divisions—Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced— and every match showcased fantastic energy, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Please join us in congratulating our 1st Place Winners in each division:
Advanced Division:
Jason Tracy – Service Master TRS
Grey Davis – Mitchell Insurance Agency
Intermediate Division:
Reena Valmonte & Phyllis Aquino – Starr Companies
Beginner Division:
Joe Taylor – RT Specialty
Ray Rufilia – AXA
A special thank-you to our amazing sponsors for making this event possible:
Presenting Sponsor: Service Master TRS
Court Sponsor: CoverDesk
Drink Sponsor: Tokio Marine HCC – Surety Group
Thank you again to all the players, supporters, and sponsors for helping make this year’s tournament such a success. We can’t wait to see you on the courts again next year!
Thank you to all the teams who joined us at The Covey, Big Easy Ranch in Columbus, TX for our Fall Golf Tournament. Guests enjoyed a relaxing overnight stay in the country followed by a beautiful day of golf, surrounded by the exceptional scenery and amenities that make Big Easy Ranch such a standout destination.
In just a few years, the ranch has earned its reputation as the region’s top spot for sporting, hunting, and golf — and our attendees experienced exactly why.
Congratulations to Our Winners!
Winning Team – Nimble Jake Passero Fraser Graham Lance Ester Michael Salazar Low Gross: Alan Doyle Low Net: George Foteh
On November 3, 2025, a fantastic group of volunteers spent a meaningful day at the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge, bringing a delicious meal, shared laughter, and a few lively rounds of bingo to families navigating cancer treatment.
Hope Lodge provides free lodging near the Medical Center for patients and caregivers—a haven of comfort and support during incredibly challenging times. Volunteers expressed deep gratitude for the chance to serve and brighten someone’s day, and they’re already looking forward to returning soon.
A huge thank you to all the incredible volunteers who joined us today at Kids' Meals, Inc.
From morning to afternoon shifts, your time and energy made a real difference. Volunteers helped pack fruit, applesauce, granola, and more—making sure kids in need have nutritious meals.
We were especially excited to support this work at Kids’ Meals' brand new facility in Spring Branch. What a beautiful space for an amazing mission! We’re so grateful for the opportunity to serve—and we’ll be back to volunteer again very soon!
Irving Pozmantier
November 21, 1930 – October 11, 2025
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Irving Pozmantier on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the age of 94.Irving was born on November 21, 1930, the second child of a Ukrainian-born mother and Polish-born father, the late Anne and Abraham Pozmantier. He and his sister, Miriam, were B.O.I (Born On the Island) and had an idyllic early childhood playing on the Galveston beach most every day.
Irving attended Ball High School, where he excelled academically, was a ROTC captain, served as editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, and graduated at just 16 years old. By the age of 20, Irving had earned a degree in History from the University of Texas at Austin and served as president of his fraternity, AEPi.
Following college, Irving volunteered to serve in the Korean War, even though he had a deferment. His parents wanted him to accept the deferment, avoid the conflict, and begin working at his father's clothing store, but Irving felt a duty to serve. That choice and the war shaped his lifelong sense of duty, loyalty, and resilience.
He often recalled his service alongside cherished friends, Benny Moskowitz and Alan Aaronson, cousin Eddie Sheinberg, and others who remained dear to him throughout his life. His duties ranged from serving as a cook to leading a graves registration detail as a Private First Class, where he and his unit would sometimes be required to venture close to the front lines. He liked to joke to family and friends that his cooking was so bad that graves detail was a natural next step. Irving and his team were instrumental in giving grieving families the closure they longed for.
Irving went on to build a highly distinguished career in the insurance industry, having shown entrepreneurial spirit as a child with his sister Miriam selling drinks to thirsty soldiers at Fort Crockett. Together with his brother-in-law, Avrohm Wisenberg, who was an early mentor, Irving carried forward the vision of his father-in-law, founder Sol L. Wisenberg, at Wisenberg Insurance Agency. He later, with partner Joe Williams and son Jeff Pozmantier, founded Risk Analysts, an insurance consulting business. For decades, he led both firms as chairman with integrity, intelligence, and innovation.
In his final days, Irving remained dedicated to serving his clients. He worried about "piles of unanswered emails" and unreturned phone calls, and remarked he was "considering" cutting back on his full-time work hours. In total, Irving spent 69 years in the insurance industry.
A passionate leader in his community, Irving served as president of Congregation Beth Yeshurun (1974-1976), where his forward-thinking leadership helped usher in a first-ever historic change: allowing women to lead the congregation in prayer and participate as a Bat Mitzvah in reciting Torah. He was beloved by so many that whenever he tried to leave religious services, there was always a traffic jam of people stopping to visit, share a laugh or seek his advice and counsel. Irving's support of Israel, Jewish education, and the fight against inequality defined much of his life's work. He was president of the Jewish Federation and the United Jewish Campaign, where his vision, stewardship, and tireless fundraising efforts left a lasting mark. He chaired the State of Israel Bonds effort and served on the boards of Jewish Family Service, Houston Jewish Community Foundation, Jewish Theological Seminary, American Associates of the American Jewish Committee, Houston Hillel, the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center, Seven Acres, Vita Living, and the inaugural boards of Holocaust Museum Houston and Emery Weiner School.
During his years of community service, Irving was given many awards, including the Spirit of Service Award on behalf of the Captive Insurance Association, the City of Houston Mayoral Proclamation of Irving Pozmantier Day, the Max Nathan Award, the David H. White Memorial Award, Beth Yeshurun's Katen Torah, and the State of Israel Bonds Leadership Award. Irving and his first wife, Sidney, were the original recipients of the Jewish Family Service Chesed Award. Irving's philanthropy knew no boundaries as he championed causes that fostered growth, education, and opportunity for everyone.
Above all, Irving was devoted to his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than being with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Their presence always turned an otherwise busy workday into a play date. He was known to tell the kids he was very "frosty" (aka 'cool')!
Irving was blessed to find love twice in his life. With first wife, Sidney Wisenberg Pozmantier, he shared 47 years of marriage and raised three beloved children, Jeff, Barry, and Laurie. He was a devoted father, never missing a swim meet, basketball, or baseball game, school play, Scout meeting, or broken bone Xray in the ER. Later, with second wife Paula Gerson Aaronson Pozmantier, he found deep companionship, love and happiness, and to his delight, a much-expanded family. He also treasured lifelong friendships - many spanning more than 85 years - and was the kind of friend who could always be counted upon.
Irving was an extraordinary man - a devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, cousin, and loyal friend to so many. Those who knew Irving will remember his warmth, his loyalty, his generosity, wisdom, and his endless stories and jokes. He had the rare gift of turning any gathering into one filled with laughter, wisdom, and heart.
Irving leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, integrity, and dedication that will be cherished by all who had the privilege to know him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community.
Irving is survived by his wife of 22 years, Paula; sister, Miriam Selig; sister-in-law, Evelyn Wisenberg; children, Jeff and Janet Pozmantier, Barry Pozmantier, and Laurie Pozmantier; children, David and Lisa Aaronson, Sue Aaronson, and Kathy and Curzio Cotta; grandchildren, Amy Pozmantier Eberly and husband Joe, Jenni Pozmantier Muskin and husband Zach, Ethan Fudge, Alex Aaronson, Michael Aaronson, Ross Aaronson, Mia Cotta, Ava Cotta, and Alan Ryan; great-grandchildren Noah, Zoe, and Lena; beloved Selig, Wisenberg, Wender, and Levinson nieces and nephews and cherished cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Anne and Abraham Pozmantier, and his first wife, Sidney Pozmantier.
Renee Hooker
April 5, 1971 – October 24, 2025
Born on April 5, 1971, in Houston, Renee was the cherished daughter of the late James Ronald Evans and Joyce Evans-Cates. She grew up surrounded by the love of her siblings—Gwen Foster, Ben Evans, Melissa Nichols, Cheri Kilson, Ron Evans, and Randy Evans—and carried the values of family, faith, and hard work throughout her life.
A proud Houstonian, Renee built a successful career in the insurance industry, dedicating more than 30 years to her profession. Known for her intelligence, dedication, and vibrant personality, she earned the trust and admiration of her colleagues and clients alike.
On May 28, 2015, Renee married the love of her life, James Hooker. Together they created a wonderful life full of laughter, shared adventures, and unwavering devotion. They loved to travel together, try new restaurants, and more than anything enjoyed each other’s company. Their love was easy, joyful, and genuine. Renee and James were a beautiful example of partnership and friendship.
Renee was a devoted and loving mother who showed unconditional love to her children every single day. She wanted her children to always feel how deeply she loved them and to know how proud she was of the people they had become. She loved spending time with her children and sharing moments that created lifelong memories.
Becoming a grandmother was one of the greatest joys of Renee’s life — and “Grandma” was truly her favorite title. She absolutely adored her grandchildren and took every chance she could to spoil them. Whether it was through a special treat, a thoughtful surprise, or a day spent together, Renee’s love for her grandchildren shone brightly. They were her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment with them.
Renee attended Kingsland Baptist Church, where she enjoyed worship and fellowship with her loving husband and supportive community. She lived each day with purpose, generosity, and deep care for others.
She is survived by her loving husband, James Hooker; her children, Charles Ryan Prather, Jessica Hope Del Rio and husband Valentin Del Rio; stepdaughters Lindsey Gibson and Jennifer Hooker; and her beloved grandchildren Carter Del Rio, Hadley Del Rio, Brayden Del Rio, Charles Ethan Prather, Charles Ford Prather, Tyler Gibson, and Laine Gibson.
She is also survived by her mother, Joyce Evans-Cates; her siblings Gwen Foster, Melissa Nichols and husband Craig Nichols, Cheri Kilson and husband Rick Kilson, and Ron Evans and his late wife Hope Evans; her cousins Kevin Brown and wife Hadra Brown, Lisa Welge and husband Bert Welge; her nieces and nephews Brice Rutledge, James Evans, Meagan Moeder, Jennifer Kilson-Malchar, Julie Murray, Jennifer Seabrook and Lauren Munroe. Renee will also be fondly remembered by her pets, Hank and Katie.
She was preceded in death by her father James Ronald Evans, her brothers Ben Evans and Randy Evans, her sister-in-law Hope Evans, and her favorite dog, Hans.
Renee’s final resting place will be at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home & Cemetery.
In Renee’s own unforgettable words: “I don’t want a f-ing sandwich.”
A life well-lived and deeply loved — Renee Hooker will be forever remembered as a smart, passionate, beautiful, generous, and intentional woman — a loving wife, devoted mom, adoring grandma, incredible sister, and a truly great friend.
WHO HAS... THE LAST WORD
Michael Williamson
Where do you work?
IGP Specialty
What sound do you love?
Music and laughter
If you could paint a picture of any scenery, you’ve seen before, what would you paint?
Hillside with autumn leaves
What was the first thing you bought with your own money?
The Doors album
If you could choose to stay a certain age forever, what age would it be?
35
What did you do growing up that got you into trouble? Questioning authority
What is your pet peeve in traffic?
When traffic stops to look at a wreck on the other side of the freeway
Do you have any hidden talents?
Remains hidden
Weirdest thing you have ever eaten?
What is something you learned in the last week? Experience teaches you something you didn’t want to know Haggis
What is your favorite flavor of jellybeans? None of them
What is your LEAST favorite electronic device? All good
What is the longest car trip you have ever taken? Houston to New York City
Can vegetarians eat animal crackers?
With Beefeaters gin
Ninjas or pirates?
Beverly Hills Ninja
What was your favorite childhood television program?
Looney Tunes
Are you a collector of anything?
Books and CD’s
At a movie theater, which arm rest is yours?
Does not matter
