Louise M. "Lou" Rentfro

Lou Rentfro, 95, died peacefully at home on Thursday, November 2. She was a native of Bradley County and valedictorian of Bradley Central High School’s Class of 1940. Lou’s grandfather was James Alexander Whitehead (1860-1948), descendant of the pioneering Whiteheads of the Watauga Valley, and a prominent educator, businessman, farmer, and political leader in Cleveland during the early 20th century. She was the last surviving child of Estelle Taylor and Clyde Whitehead.

Lou was the widow of Lawrence E. Rentfro, proprietor of Rentfro Motors until his death in 1975. He was the area’s only authorized Studebaker dealer, but his passion was for foreign sports cars. Lou and Lawrence lived on 21st Street in Cleveland from the 1950s until her death.

Their son Larry died in an accident in 1968 at Ft. Belvoir, VA, while serving in the U. S. Army. Son-in-law Bob Zvolerin, who was like another son to her, passed in 2011.

Lou is survived by daughter, Camille Zvolerin; son, Jeff, and wife Tiffany Rentfro, all of Cleveland; son, Jack Rentfro of Knoxville; Granddaughter Katy Zvolerin and her daughters, Spencer and Hayden, of Durham, NC; grandson, Matt and wife Jenny Zvolerin of Acworth, GA; and several nieces and nephews.

Per her wishes, there will be no service. You are however encouraged to share a memory of Lou and/or your personal condolences with her family by visiting her memorial web page and guestbook at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home and the Cody are honored to assist the family with her arrangements.