Obituary published on Legacy.com by Clayton Funeral Home, Inc. - Kings Park on Oct. 5, 2024.
Arlene Grix, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and Great Nana, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2024. She was predeceased by her devoted husband of 56 years, Edward Grix, whom she deeply missed since his passing.
Arlene is survived by her six children: Edward (Andrea), Diane (Daniel Cichy), Eileen (Madr), Thomas (Dyana), Noreen (Albert Lukan), and Allison (Keith Eckert). She was a cherished grandmother to Alicia (John Coleman), Francesca (Vincent Ferreira), Victoria (JB Cohen), Jessica (Vincent Greco), Isabella, Emma, Kevin, Rianna, Nicole, Brynn, Jack, Keira, and Ryann, and a proud great-grandmother to Kacey, Rocco, Sophia, Brody, and Mila. She was predeceased by her two grandchildren, Arthur and Albert, whose memory she always carried close to her heart. Arlene also leaves behind her adored brother Edward Lehanka, his wife Dolores, and her cherished sisters and brother in love Patrica (Wegener), Mary (Velsor), Arthur (Maureen Grix), Theresa (Joey Alusick), and Kathy (Dennis Hoban).
Arlene and Ed moved their young family from the Inwood section of Manhattan to
Kings Park, NY, where they quickly became active and devoted members of the St. Joseph's Parish community. During this time, Arlene also proudly joined the Ancient Order of Hibernians, celebrating her Irish heritage and community service.
A tireless supporter of her family, Arlene attended thousands of athletic events, always cheering on her children and grandchildren. Her unwavering presence at these events was a source of pride for her family, as she celebrated every victory and effort with enthusiasm and joy.
Arlene found immense joy in time spent with family and friends. She loved traveling, especially to Ireland, cherished summer trips to Robert Moses State Park, camping at Callahan's Beach, and cheering on the Fighting Irish, Army football and whatever underdog that was playing. She was an avid bowler, a fan of Thanksgiving Day parades, and a loyal competitor in her weekly mahjong games, which she never missed.
Her love of the arts was something she passed down to her children and grandchildren, organizing an annual family trip to Broadway that continued for over 20 years-a cherished tradition that lives on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
Arlene's warmth, unwavering faith, and dedication to her family will forever be remembered by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and joy that will live on in the countless memories she created with those she cherished most.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, an organization that is near and dear to Arlene.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
501 St. Jude Place
Memphis, TN 38105
www.stjude.org/donate