Gretchen Sue Labrenz, a former longtime St. John resident, passed away at the age of 65 on May 15, 2026, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Gretchen was raised in Upper Arlington, Ohio, and attended The Ohio State University.
After college, she relocated to St. John, where she worked at Caneel Bay Resort for 10 years before joining her family’s real estate business, Cruz Bay Realty Inc. Gretchen’s dedication, knowledge, outstanding reputation, and expertise in the St. John real estate market made her one of the island’s top producers for several decades.
Deeply rooted in the community she loved, Gretchen had a big heart and found great joy in helping others. Throughout her 40-plus years on the island, she supported local St. John groups, including the Friends of Virgin Islands National Park, Gifft Hill School, and the St. John Historical Society, among many others. She cherished her niece and nephew, finding great joy in watching them grow and prosper.
Gretchen formed countless lasting friendships throughout her life. The family extends their deepest gratitude to Cal and Georgie George for the unwavering love, dedication, and quiet support they so generously gave to her. Special thanks to Julie Murray, her dear friend and neighbor in Fort Lauderdale, for her kindness, companionship, and endless support. Gretchen also took great joy in opening her home to those who shared her love of St. John, creating lifelong memories and friendships along the way.
She is survived by her sister, Amy Cuccio, brother-in-law, John Cuccio, niece, Laura Cuccio and nephew, John Cuccio, and his husband, Mike Ponzio.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider honoring Gretchen’s memory with a donation to the Friends of Virgin Islands National Park, P.O. Box 811, St. John, VI 00831.
