Arlene F Cavanaugh

Arlene Fay Cavanaugh, age 88, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025. She was born on May 6, 1937, in Wilton, Missouri, to John Scruggs and Savilla Sapp Scruggs.
Arlene was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who loved her family above all else. Throughout her life she worked at Square D, Walmart, Subway, and Dollar Tree, where she enjoyed staying busy and connecting with the people around her. Her warm personality and friendly nature made her well known by many.
Arlene loved the simple joys in life. She enjoyed going to her grand and great-grandkids' ball games, shopping, and spending time with her loved ones.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Morris Cavanaugh, her children Teresa Cavanaugh and Robert Cavanaugh, and her siblings Genevea Shettlesworth, Vera Ploeger, W. M. Lewis "Buddy" Scruggs, Ray Scruggs, Kenneth Scruggs, Norman Scruggs, and Katherine Roberts.
Arlene is survived by her children, Morris Cavanaugh Jr. (Carol), James Cavanaugh Sr., Colleen Decker (Ted), and Kayla Cavanaugh. She also leaves behind her daughter-in-law Anna Cavanaugh, along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who loved her dearly.
A celebration of her life will be held on Monday, November 24, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Nilson-Millard Cremation & Burial Center.5611 E. St. Charles Rd. Columbia MO. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Heart Association.
Arlene will be remembered for her gentle heart, her dedication to her family, and the joy she brought into the lives of those who knew her. She will be deeply missed.