Arlene Ruth Kelly

She was a 1962 graduate of North Side High School. After graduation, she began employment at State School, also known as Indiana State Developmental Center. She began her career as a facilitator, later serving on staff at the State’s campground. She eventually became the center’s photographer and was often to photograph celebrations for co-workers. Arlene retired after 35 years of faithful service.

During her time at the State, she held multiple part-time jobs. She worked as a recreational staff member for group homes, and she also worked at T.J. Maxx (primarily for the discounts).

She had a special love and talent for taking photos and to this day she has thousands of photos she has taken. Her passion for photography eventually led to her becoming a very popular wedding photographer.

On October 1, 2023, she became a member of Branches of Christ Ministry, where she was involved in the Widows’ Ministry and Children Ministry.

Arlene enjoyed life, she enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She was a member of the Red Hats group, FWSDC Reunion Club, bible study group, and a weekly card group. She loved to do arts and crafts, gardening, tending to her flowers, traveling, shopping and accessorizing.

Arlene was preceded by her parents, Oscar and Mary Martin; siblings, Beverly Graham, Bob (Doris) Martin, James Martin, Richard (Darlene) Martin and Alice Martin.

Surviving are her daughters, Kimberly (Stacy) Washington and Robin Pilot; grandchildren, Robert Tubbs III, Josiah Tubbs, Samara (Jesus Jr.) Rivera, Kyler Griffin, Danielle (Kamelje “Lucky”) Singh, Levi Washington; great-grandchildren, Natalia Tubbs, Chaitan Tubbs, Raphael Tubbs, Sarbjeet Singh, Navedeep Singh, Ranger Rivera and Ivi’Ana Rivera; siblings, Phillip Martin, and Joan Truex; sister-in-law, Corrine Martin along with a host of loving family and friends. She was the proud parent of two cats, Nikita and Cleopatra, along with her pride and joy, her macaw, Kula.

A Memorial Gathering & Service for Arlene will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Lakeside Park, 1140 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46805.

Everyone is asked to please wear something yellow in memory of Arlene. Yellow was her favorite color.