Born in New Orleans and a longtime resident of Virginia Beach, Arlene passed away after a short and difficult fight with cancer. To most, she was known as R or Nana, and to a few ‘The General’. She never shied away from putting her full effort and energy behind any project large or small from designing a house or planning an elaborate backyard wedding to having the right luggage for a trip or the perfect picture frame. She loved people and her Louisiana spirit of hospitality and love of good food and music endeared her to many. She was an active, social woman who walked the Lesner or Great Neck bridge on most days with her friends.  

She is survived by her children Ashley and Brandon, grandchildren Madison, Morgan, Jonen, and Samuel, and partner John Thompson.  She was a dedicated mother, grandmother, and friend who will be greatly missed.

There will be a private family service next week followed in the spring by a celebration of life for R’s community of friends and family. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital 2 South Oncology Unit, 1060 First Colonial Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23454.  The staff here are incredibly compassionate and true heroes, in particular Abby Dalton who supported our family throughout our stay in the hospital.