Eldona Arlene Blue

Eldona Arlene (Flory) Blue, a beacon of love and gentleness, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2025, at the age of 93 in Niles, Michigan. Born on January 17, 1932, in Tippecanoe, Indiana, to the late Frank and Bernice Flory. After losing her mother at the age of 10, Eldona's father remarried and she was then loved and raised by Marie Flory who treated Eldona as if she were her own. Eldona's life was a testament to the enduring power of love, family, and perseverance.
Eldona grew up on a farm in Indiana, where the seeds of her remarkable work ethic and an everlasting love for animals were sown. This bucolic upbringing shaped her into a person who appreciated the simple joys of life, from the beauty of a well-tended flower garden to the thrill of finding hidden gems at garage sales and Goodwill stores. It was this same farm that instilled in her the values she would carry throughout her life: dedication, kindness, and a deep sense of family.
After marrying the late Robert Blue, Eldona embraced motherhood with open arms, raising her children, Randy and Belinda, with the same love and care that she had known growing up. She was a mother who led by example, returning to school and achieving her high school diploma in the very same year as her daughter, showcasing her belief in lifelong learning and the importance of education.
Eldona's love for reading was insatiable; she delved into all genres of books, each page turn a new adventure, a new knowledge to behold. Her gentle soul found solace in her flower garden, a colorful and vibrant retreat reflecting her inner grace. Eldona had an uncanny ability to find joy in the simple act of seeking good deals, a hobby that brought her much excitement and happiness in her later years.
Animals held a special place in Eldona's heart, with cats reigning supreme as her favorite companions. Her nurturing spirit extended to all creatures great and small, and her fondness for felines was evident to all who knew her. Eldona's presence was a comforting embrace, a sanctuary where both humans and animals alike felt understood and cherished.
As a matriarch, Eldona was the epitome of what it meant to be family-oriented. Her love knew no bounds, encompassing not only her son Randy and daughter Belinda (Charles) Stanard, but also her cherished grandchildren Rodney (Adrienne) Blue, Michelle (Tom) Rozmarynowski, and Karen (Rob) Randall. She reveled in the joys of her great-grandchildren, Kaylie (Chiran) Baldwin, Austin, Ayden, Amelia, and Annabelle, and smiled with pride at the arrival of her great-great-grandson, Logan.
Those who had the privilege of knowing Eldona could attest to her loving nature, thoughtfulness, and gentle spirit. She was, without a doubt, the best mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother one could hope for. Her legacy is one of warmth and affection, a legacy that will continue to flourish in the lives of those she touched.
As Eldona Arlene (Flory) Blue concludes her earthly chapter, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart generously given. She leaves behind a tapestry of memories that will be cherished and passed down through generations. Eldona's story is not one of an end, but a continuous glow of love, lighting the path for her beloved family and friends. Her spirit, as gentle and nurturing as ever, will forever be felt in the rustling leaves of her garden, the pages of a well-loved book, and in the soft purring of a contented cat nestled in a warm lap.
Honoring her love for animals, those wishing to make a memorial donation have been asked to consider The Humane Society of St. Joseph County, 2506 Grape Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545.
In accordance with Eldona's wishes, cremation has taken place and her family will be celebrating her life privately,
Rest in peace, dear Eldona, until the gardens bloom eternal and the books open to endless stories in the company of all whom you loved and who loved you in return.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services.