Arlene Ruth Butler

The 81 years of Arlene’s life can best be described as a life full of love. Her devotion to and compassion for her family and friends were at the heart of who she was, and that love never wavered.

After a nearly seven-year battle with dementia, Arlene passed away peacefully and without pain on Friday, July 31, 2026, surrounded by loved ones at her side. She was predeceased by her parents, Grace Melba and Clarence Arthur Pearce, and her brother, Douglas Murray Pearce. Arlene left this world for her heavenly home, where she is once again reunited with her mother, father, and brother.

She is survived by her daughters, Terri (Cory) and Shelly of Phoenix; her life partner, Leonard Brinson of Sun City West; her brother, Kenneth (Annalaura) of Mexico; sister-in-law Margo; niece Kristina (Dan) and nephew Michael (Sarah) of Canada; and her beloved grandchildren, Haley and Alyssa.

Originally from Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta, Arlene made Arizona her home for the past 46 years.

Arlene was kind, selfless, spunky, and so very loving. Her laugh was infectious, and her love for her children and family was fierce. She had an endless capacity for compassion and was always willing to put others before herself. She gave so much of herself to the people she loved, leaving behind a warmth and kindness that will not be forgotten.

A quote often attributed to Maya Angelou beautifully reflects the way Arlene lived her life:

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Arlene lived her life for others. She made people feel loved, cared for, and important, and her presence brought joy to the lives of those around her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

In accordance with Arlene’s wishes, her ashes will be spread over the Pacific Ocean, one of her favorite places to enjoy throughout her life. She did not wish to have a formal funeral or memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Arlene’s memory are invited to make a donation to support dementia research and families affected by dementia through the Dementia Society of America. Donate-Dementia Society of America

Above all, Arlene would want to be remembered for the love she gave so freely and the lives she touched along the way.