Jean Marie Arena

Jean M. Arena, 66, of Canton, OH passed away December 31, 2025 after a lengthy illness. She was born in Canton, OH on September 22, 1959 to the late James L. and Joanne L. (Guess) Cookson. Jean was a 1977 graduate of Louisville High School. Jean played the oboe in concert band and cymbals in the marching band. She was editor of the yearbook. Jean was active in Youth choir at 11th Street Church of God. She worked as an associate at Lane Bryant, a shift manager at Burger King and a general manager at McDonald's. Jean loved her job and was very proud of the job she did. Jean had a big heart, she loved her cat and always believed in the the best in people. She is survived by her husband of 47 years, James M. Arena, sons James (Krissy)M. Arena Jr. of Canton and Bryon (Liz) M. Arena of Lexington, KY. Two sisters, Susan (Scott) Blattert of Hanoverton, OH and Sandee (Rich) McCartney of Jacksonville, NC and a brother, James L. Cookson II of Carrollton, OH. Nine grandchildren; Adriana Arena, Xavier Arena, Logan Arena, Ophelia Arena, Tyler Spillios-Imer, Jason Lee Slater and mother-in-law( her second mom) Nancy Bower. A memorial service will be held January 23, 2026 1:00 p.m. at Heritage Cremation and Burial Society, 303 South Chapel St. Louisville, OH with Rev. Shannon Ensign-Spillios as celebrant. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jean, please visit our floral store.