Ruth Arlene Starkey

Arlene is survived by her sister, Melba Lemmons; her children: Sherry (Roger) Williams, William David (Melinda) Starkey, and Donna (Mike) Nesbit; grandchildren: Nicole Ramer, William Brandon (Dima) Rousseau, Jennifer Nesbit, Cheryl (Mandy) Black, Monica Holder Griggs, and David Lee Holder; great-grandchildren: Lucas Attwood, Ian Hodgkins, Ellie Willard, Chase McDaniel, Ashley Griggs, Brittany Griggs, Davin Holder and Kaylee Holder; and one great-great-grandchild, Cynthia Jordan.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee Ramsey and Lydia Denton; her husband Cliff Starkey, and daughters Patricia Scott and Deborah Starkey; and siblings Otis Ramsey, Virginia Phillips, and Lorene Melker.

Arlene passed away leaving behind a legacy of enduring love, hard work, and a deeply generous spirit. At age 16, Arlene married Cliff in Piggott, Arkansas, on January 20, 1951. Their remarkable 75-year marriage was grounded in loyalty, humor, and mutual support.

For many years, Arlene worked in the receiving department at May Company - Venture Store. A devoted homemaker, she showed her love through cooking and was known for her homemade egg rolls, chicken and dumplings, and coconut cream pies. She also

took pride in gardening and canning homegrown vegetables, traditions she passed on to her children.

Adventurous by nature, Arlene cherished the outdoors and spent many joyful days camping, boating on the family’s pontoon, and relaxing at their Goose Creek cabin. Community-minded and compassionate, Arlene also supported local charities through

the Fairview Heights Fire Department Women’s Auxiliary while Cliff served as a firefighter.

Arlene will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her devoted heart, generous hands, and the comforting warmth of her presence.

Services will be private for the family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Heartland Hospice in her honor.