Norfolk—Arlene E. Zeno, 79, passed away because of COVID 19 on February 22, 2021.
Born in Richmond, Va., she was the daughter of the late Ida Blank Ellman and John S. Ellman.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Harley Ellman, MD.
Left to cherish her memory are her husband of 57 years, Allan S. Zeno, D.D.S., sons; Richard (Amy), Lawrence, David (partner Kristen Cruz), and an adoring granddaughter Sarah Nesta Zeno; brother Lee Ellman, D.P.M (Alice), sister-In-law Marianne Ellman, brother-in-law Gerald M. Zeno (sister-in-law Judge Rebecca B. Smith), as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Arlene graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in Richmond, Va., attended the University of Alabama, and graduated from VCU. She taught at Granby Elementary School in Norfolk for three years before taking time to raise her own three sons. She later enjoyed a 31-year career as medical front office staff for Dr. Herbert M. Brewer, MD. While there she took every opportunity to widen a patient’s smile and join them in laughter. Arlene focused her life around being a generous and devoted wife, benevolent mother of her three sons, and absolute lover of dogs. She adored taking family vacations around the world and day trips to Williamsburg, or other glorious spaces in her everlasting home of Virginia.
As a beacon of light in the Zeno family, she will be forever missed, and her light forever remembered throughout the lives of those who were lucky enough to love her.
A private family graveside service was held in Forest Lawn cemetery with Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg and Cantor Jennifer Rueben officiating. The service was live streamed through www.hdoliver.com.
Memorial contributions may be made to Ohef Sholom Temple, 530 Raleigh Ave, Norfolk, VA 23507 or, the SPCA, 916 Ballentine Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23504. Online condolences may be sent to the family through www.hdoliver.com.