Arlene's obituary
She graduated from Greenville High School in 1957. Arlene went on to study Biology at Thiel College and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in 1961. Arlene moved to California to work at UC Davis in cancer research. She then came to Boston and continued cancer research at Dana Farber Jimmy Fund and Tufts New England Medical Center. Later on, Arlene had a variety of jobs including teaching basic biology at the New England Institute, receptionist, telemarketer, and church secretary.
When you think of Arlene, the biggest thing that comes to mind – sunflowers. Not only were they her favorite flower, but they complimented her demeanor perfectly. She even named her iconic yellow VW bug that she drove for many years, you guessed it, Sunflower! She was friendly to all and a truly caring person.
Arlene loved to entertain. She always had some crazy story to share. She also loved attending shows at the Lyric Stage Company and had a subscription for over two decades. She adored the Vineyard and visited yearly.
While Arlene may not have been a New England native, when she settled in Brookline, it was like she was truly home. She loved Brookline dearly. She was very active at the United Parish in Brookline, starting a Singles Club and Early Risers Breakfast Club, and cooked for church suppers. Arlene was even an elected Town Meeting member in Brookline. She was also very passionate about the Brookline Farmers Market, where she was the market manager for many years. She expanded the market to include meats, fish, baked goods, jams & jellies, honey, flowers, and ice cream.
Her warm smile and infectious laugh will be greatly missed.
Arlene is survived by Donna N. (McKinney) Flowers, sister-in-law. Her brother, Chester Lee Flowers passed away in late 2020. Both were preceded in death by Chester’s first wife, Ruth E. Flowers.
There are no services scheduled.
Arlene is laid to rest alongside her brother at Shenango Valley Cemetery in Greenville, PA.