Arlene Wingard

It is with great sadness that the family of Arlene Clark Wingard, 91, of Derry, announces her passing on Jan. 29, 2025. She was at home, surrounded by her loving family and caregivers. We were so lucky to call her our own as an amazing wife, mother, and grandmother. She was born on Nov. 10, 1933, in Johnstown, a daughter of the late Clifford F. and Anna Mae Ressler Clark, and moved to Derry in childhood. She met her husband, John R. Wingard, in high school, and they were married for seventy wonderful years. Arlene was a stay-at-home mother to her two daughters, Sandra (Dave) Fralick and Jolene (Thomas) Wiegers. She created a wonderful life for her family in their Derry home, which was custom built by her husband John 'Boomer' and her father Clifford. She loved her family with all her heart and was always there to support them in every celebration and trial in life, and spent much time with them in Cape Vincent, NY, and Bar Harbor, ME. Those long summer stays are filled with many magical memories. Arlene was a devoutly religious person, spending every morning with her Bible, and we are comforted in the knowledge that she was welcomed with open arms by her Savior. She was also very involved with her Methodist church, serving as the treasurer for many years. She could often be found working on the church statements on an old-fashioned typewriter. One of her favorite warm weather pastimes was sitting outside with her family on the swing, enjoying the beautiful views and sunsets over Derry. Every day started and ended with a cup of tea and a snack. We were blessed with two long-time care givers, Vicki Brooks and Mindy Taylor, who have become and will remain members of our family. Her great-niece, Mary Beth Allison was a constant selfless support and help during this difficult time, and her many visits were so cherished and appreciated by the entire family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by an infant son, John Wingard II; and her sister, Janet Louise Bollinger. She is survived by her grandchildren, Kelly (Neil) Scott and John Wiegers; and great-grandchildren, Cole, Blake, and Avonlea Scott. She had many nieces and nephews and was especially blessed to have her wonderful nieces, Carol Slifka and Amy Malloy; as neighbors and helpers. Services and burial in Coles Cemetery are private for the family. MCCABE FUNERAL HOME, 300 W. Third Ave., Derry, is in charge of arrangements. www.mccabefuneralhomespa.com.