Arlene S. Zarin passed away on February 15, 2020 in the arms of her loving husband and soul mate, surrounded by the love and devotion of her wonderful family after a long and courageous battle with MS.
Arlene was born in South Orange, New Jersey. She attended Columbia H.S. where she met and fell in love with her future husband David Zarin, M.D. After H.S., Arlene attended Northeastern and Tufts Universities, and received her BA in education. David attended Amherst College, where Arlene spent nearly every weekend.
After college, Arlene and David wed on June 27, 1970. This year was to be their 50th Wedding anniversary.
Arlene and David moved to Cincinnati, Ohio where David attended the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and obtained his M.D. Arlene was a wonderful elementary school teacher and helped many young children start their education. They moved to Houston, Texas in 1974 for David to train at Baylor College of Medicine, where he completed his residency in Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery. They moved to Spring, TX in 1979 where David began his practice.
She was active in numerous activities, including the Women’s Auxiliary of the Harris County Medical Society, the American Heart Association and Northwest Assistance Ministries.
Arlene is survived by her 3 wonderful children and their families—Jeff Zarin, M.D. (wife Tanaz), Greg Zarin, Esq. (wife Dessi) and Brad Zarin, Esq. (wife Michele). She has 6 beautiful grandchildren—Sohrab (11), Tehmina (11), Isaac (9), Carolina (7), Noah (5) and Isabella (2). Arlene’s love and devotion to her children and grandchildren was limitless. She loved and treasured every minute they spent together.
In addition to her immediate family, Arlene is survived by her sisters (Caren and Alexis), brother (Pete), stepmother (Chloe) and sister-in-law (Barbara). There are many nieces and nephews left behind as well.
The lifelong relationship between Arlene and David was amazing. They shared a love and devotion to each other that conquered any and all obstacles. Arlene often said they “were bonded at the hip” and she most recently constantly wore a necklace that David gave her many years ago that simply said “FOREVER’. Arlene was a woman of great strength, courage and uncommon beauty. She had a fashion sense that was unmatched. Her smile lit up every room and was beloved by all. She was diagnosed with MS over 40 years ago. Together, hand in hand, arm in arm they never allowed that to stop their enjoyment of life or family. They were able to travel the globe, including Europe, Hawaii and Alaska. They were fortunate to have a wonderful lake house that served as a gathering place for friends and family for many years. Arlene was a wonderful host—she knew how to throw a party!!
Arlene was a deeply devoted friend to many. She in turn had many friends that were with her throughout all of her health issues. Particularly close to Arlene were Liz Fitzgerald, Mollie Romanek, and our wonderful group of travel friends known as the “Limoncellos” (Nyla Battaglia, Becky and Ty Hunter, Pat and Steve Stern and Sue and John Shelley).
As Arlene’s health declined, she demonstrated unwavering strength, grace and courage. It was Arlene’s good fortune to have Hermelinda DeLoya (Mely) in her life. Mely has been a part of our family for 37 years. Over the years she became Arlene’s primary caregiver and has always taken care of her with dignity and love. There are no words to express the gratitude that Arlene (and all of the Zarin family) have for Mely.
The entire Zarin family is tremendously grateful to the many people who helped care for Arlene in her last year and who enabled us to provide a loving and comfortable place for her in her home. We would like to especially thank Sharona Jacobs who helped us in so many ways. The caregivers from At Your Side were wonderful to Arlene—thanks to Prii, Marquita, Marbella and Dimitri. Special thanks go to James Killian, M.D at Baylor College of Medicine who cared for Arlene for over 40 years.
A Celebration of Arlene’s life will take place on March 8th, at the Zarin home. David and her sons will receive visitors from 11:30-1. A private memorial for family and invited guests will take place from 2-4 pm.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the National MS Society, or the charity of your choice.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.forestparkthewoodlands.com for the Zarin family.
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