Arlene Diana (Rea) Arrants

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Arlene Diana Arrants, who left us peacefully on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at the age of 73. A resident of North East, MD, Arlene was born on August 21, 1951, in Elkton, MD, and devoted her life to her family, friends, and the community she loved.

Arlene's warm spirit and zest for life will always be remembered by her loving daughters, Michelle Shaffer (Brad) and Kim Deitrich (Aaron), both of Elkton, MD. She took immense pride in being a grandmother to her grandchildren, including Dannielle Clark, Anthony Buttrey, Teagan Shaffer, Austin Shaffer, Rease Shaffer, and Nolynn Shaffer, as well as her 3 cherished great-grandchildren, Aidan, Landon and Raelynn. Her bond with her sisters, Shirley Clark (John) of Elkton, MD and Lora Blackson (Taylor), of Townsend, DE, and her brothers, James Rea (Sarah) and Jerry Rea (Jean), all of Elkton, MD, was one of love and laughter, filled with countless memories. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews.

Arlene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Walter Noble Arrants, III; her parents: Francis Marshall Rea, Sr., and Ella Elizabeth (Hammond) Rea; and her brothers: Wayne Rea and Francis Rea, Jr.

Arlene spent many years working in the local dining scene, contributing her skills and warmth to establishments such as Pier One Restaurant, Spence's Lunch, Harold's, Jean Marie’s, the NE River Yacht Club, and Jengerbees. Her love of the outdoors was evident in her hobbies, which included gardening, mowing the grass, and nurturing flowers. She found joy and peace in nature, often inspiring those around her to appreciate the world's beauty.

A gathering to celebrate Arlene's life will take place on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. There will be a public viewing at Crouch Funeral Home P.A., 127 South Main Street, North East, MD, starting at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. Interment will then be held at North East Methodist Cemetery, North East, MD, where family and friends will honor her memory.

Arlene Arrants will be deeply missed but will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. In this time of sorrow, let us come together to support one another, sharing stories and memories that celebrate her remarkable life.