Tributes

It is with heavy hearts and profound love that we announce the passing of Arlene C. Smith Myers Angell, who left this world peacefully on June 22, 2026, surrounded by her cherished family in the comforting embrace of her childhood home in Turlock, California. Born on April 6, 1939, to Viola and Jennings Smith, Arlene spent a remarkable 87 years gracing the world with her kindness and resilience. Arlene grew up in Turlock and her family had one of the first melon sheds in town. Her heritage extends to downtown Turlock with Murray’s Hotel & Chili Parlor. Arlene's life was a tapestry of love, strength, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. She graduated from Turlock High School in 1957 where she shinned as the first basketball queen and song leader for the Bulldogs. She was also active in prep club, commercial club, rally committee, and girls block T in high school. In her youth she did a lot of tap dancing. She graduated from Modesto Junior College in 1959, shortly after she joined Paul in Germany France where they traveled abroad. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Paul Myers, with whom she shared an enduring love story that began as high school sweethearts. Their union was blessed with two wonderful children, Michael and Melanie Myers. Paul and Arlene were married for many happy years (26)until his untimely departure from this earth, leaving Arlene to bravely step into the role of a single mother. She was never fully alone though because she had their brother, Jay Smith by her side. They supported each other their whole lives and honestly I don’t think anyone in the family every saw them argue even once. Jay unfortunately passed suddenly in 2023. Arlene was a beacon of strength and determination and her life revolved around women’s strength and empowerment through Home Interiors. She channeled her talents into a successful career, where her keen eye for design, decorating, and fashion led her to climb the ladder of success. Her hard work and dedication were recognized with numerous awards and gifts, including: certificates, vacations, award ceremonies, jewelry/furs and pins that celebrated her achievements. She was the Senior Group Manager of Home Interior & Gifts, Inc. Despite life's challenges, Arlene's unwavering spirit shone brightly as she traveled various new beautiful destinations and made many dear friends during her time there. Whom those friends turned into lifelong companions and still visited each other until the very end. Family was at the heart of Arlene's life. She was the proud and loving mother to Michael and Melanie, and the adoring grandmother to Briana Peterson (Jayce), Robert Clinton, Sarah Speaks (Erik), and Christopher Myers (Kasey). Her legacy of love further extended to her seven great-grandchildren: Damian Clinton(Katie), Remington Peterson, Aiden, Kaleb, and Benny Myers, Caitlyn Melite, and Logan Speaks, and she was blessed with two great-great-grandchildren, Damian and Penelope Clinton. Each generation was enriched by her love, wisdom, and guidance. Our family could not ask for a better beacon to admire and strive to be. Arlene's extended family from her late brother Jay Smith, includes Rod and Jerri Smith and their children Rodney and Rusty, Kim and Kevin Barett and their daughter Faith, and Jeff Smith with his children Riley and Chandler, were all touched by her warmth and generosity. Her close friends Barbara Mcmullen, Lauri Black, Donna Anderson, Carlotta Azavedo, Beverly Bailey, Kathy Smith, Nancy Wickstrom, Winecka Thompson, Pat Camble, Barbra Hammond, Sally Phillips, Stan Copeland, Margie Soderquist, Sue Brown, and Marilyn Hayes, all cherished her as a closest and most dear friends and companions. Arlene was known for her sweet and kind nature, a gentle soul whose strength and empowerment inspired all who knew her. She believed fiercely in her family and friends, women supporting women, and always encouraging them to face life's challenges with courage and grace. Her legacy as the rock and glue of her family will be felt for generations to come. A service to honor and celebrate the life of Arlene C. Smith Myers Angell will be held at Turlock Memorial Park and Funeral Home, located at 425 N Soderquist Rd, Turlock, CA 95380. It will begin at 10AM on July 7, 2026. As we gather to remember Arlene, let us reflect on the love, laughter, and unwavering support she gifted to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Following will be a reception at the VFW 12PM-3PM @ 1405 E Linwood Ave., Turlock, CA 95380. Though Arlene has departed from this world, her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched. Her life was a testament to the power of love, family, and resilience, and she will be dearly missed by all who were blessed to know her. May she rest in eternal peace, embraced by the love she so generously shared throughout her life.

Tributes

Arlene C. Smith Myers Angell

April 6, 1939 - June 22, 2026