Arlene Levy

Arlene (Binder) Brilliant Levy, age 90, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025. Born in Philadelphia on May 22, 1935, Arlene lived a full and vibrant life marked by devotion to family, creativity, and community leadership.
In 1955, she married Dr. J. David Brilliant, with whom she shared four children: Robin Lennon (Tom), Abby Lawson (Aaron), Barbara Chu (Dave), and Jeremy Brilliant (Jennifer). After David's passing in 1976, Arlene faced life with remarkable resilience, raising her family with strength and love.
Five years later, she found love again with Eugene Levy, with whom she shared 44 years of companionship until his passing in April 2024. Her family grew to include three stepsons: David Levy (Judy), Michael Levy, and Larry Levy. She embraced her blended family wholeheartedly, treasuring the bonds of both birth and marriage.
Arlene's professional life reflected her intellectual curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit. She earned an associate's degree in Research Technology and worked in endocrinology research before helping her husband establish his endodontic practice. A founding member of Beth Tikvah, she played a formative role in shaping Columbus's Reform Jewish community.
Her creativity flourished in her businesses. In the 1970s, she opened Crafts 'n Such in downtown Worthington, known as "the old yellow house," where she welcomed crafters and taught decoupage, macramé, and more. In the 1980s, she founded In Good Taste catering, which grew from her home kitchen into a thriving company serving weddings, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, and corporate events. Later, she launched Custom Concepts, an interior design firm reflecting her flair for beauty and hospitality.
Known for her strength, wit, and candor, Arlene loved cooking, experimenting with recipes, traveling, the arts, playing cards and board games, and-above all-hosting gatherings both large and small.
She is preceded in death by her first husband, Dr. J. David Brilliant, and her second husband, Eugene Levy. She is survived by her children, step-children, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who will carry forward her legacy of love, laughter, and creativity.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, October 5, at 10:30 am at Brookdale Trillium Crossing, 3500 Trillium Crossing, Columbus, Ohio 43235. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Veteran Companion Animal Service (VCAS).