In Loving Memory of Arlene Spilloway
September 10, 1933 – June 19, 2025
Arlene Spilloway passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. In keeping with her wishes, a small private graveside service will be held.
Born in Hosmer, South Dakota on September 10, 1933, Arlene moved with her family to California in 1934. She grew up in Lodi, where she attended both elementary and high school, graduating from Lodi Union High School in 1951. A gifted athlete and proud cheerleader, she earned her varsity letters and carried that same determined spirit throughout her life.
After high school, she married and became a devoted mother to two sons. She worked tirelessly to support her family, becoming an operating room nurse—a career that allowed her to live out her deep calling to help others. In June of 1963, she remarried and found her true partner in life, Jerry Spilloway.
Arlene was a fearless woman of God, known for her compassion, her courage, and her generosity. She offered prayer and comfort to anyone in need, always carrying Bible verses in her purse to share with those who were hurting. After retiring from nursing, she continued her life of service by volunteering as a counselor at Lodi House, guiding and uplifting young women with her wisdom and faith.
She lived life to the fullest—earning two gold medals in the California Senior Games for swimming, traveling the world with her beloved Jerry, and cheering passionately at the games of her son and goddaughters. Arlene and Jerry especially cherished their adventures together at his Navy reunions across the U.S. and abroad, celebrating anniversaries in beautiful places like Sweden and Nova Scotia.
Arlene is survived by her son Light, her brothers Jim and Max Huber and their children, and by the memory of her beloved son Paul. She also leaves behind her devoted husband, Jerry Spilloway, and countless lives touched by her kindness and strength.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the UC Davis Foundation. Please make the check payable to UC Davis Foundation and on the check memo line indicate fund number 76829 so it is allocated towards research on multiple myeloma. Mail it to UC Davis Health Sciences and Alumni Relations PO Box 160186 Sacramento, CA 95816.
Arlene was brilliant, strong, loving, and deeply genuine. Her faith, her stories, and her strength will live on in all who knew and loved her.
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Spilloway family.