OGDEN: Arlene passed away, December 13, 2025, due to cancer. She is predeceased by her parents, Frank & Angela Rosso; husbands, Raymond Horswell & Alexander Scrooby, as well as many beloved aunts & uncles. Arlene is survived by her children David Horswell, Lynnette (Richard) Short, Steven (Debra) Scrooby, & Glenn (Adrianna) Scrooby; grandchildren, Robert Vargas, Brandi (Joshua LoCurcio) Buchanan, Jessica Scrooby, Craig Scrooby, Nicholas Short, Rebecca Short, Gabriella Sproba, Ava Sproba, & Kristen (Willie) Gibson; great-grandchildren, Jo-El, Keira, Frances, Isabella, Sebastian, Jose, & John; brother David Rosso. Arlene has many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, & dear friends.

Arlene was a graduate of Holy Family Grade School, Nazareth Academy, & Bryant & Stratton College. She held jobs as a telephone operator, working at Feil’s Bridal Salon, Mademoiselle’s Dress Shop, and Eastman Kodak Company.

She did extensive volunteer work for the Eastman Theatre, Auditorium Theatre, Geva Theatre, as well as Oasis, Unity Hospital & St. Augustine Church. Arlene had a gift of love and humor and will be dearly missed.

Arlene’s funeral mass will be celebrated, Saturday, December 20th, 10am at St. Christopher’s Church, 3350 Union St., N. Chili. Immediatley following, Arlene will be laid to rest in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to UR Medicine Home Care Foundation, 300 E. River Rd., PO Box 278996, Rochester, NY 14627 or to Ferals & Kittens & Cats Oh My, PO Box 18953, Rochester, NY 14618 in Arlene’s memory.

Life Story of Arlene A. Scrooby
May 10, 1938 – December 13, 2025

Arlene A. Scrooby lived a life defined by strength, independence, and unwavering devotion to her family. Born on May 10, 1938, Arlene grew into a woman whose resilience and determination shaped not only her own path, but the lives of her four children, whom she raised with love, sacrifice, and the steadfast support of her parents.

Arlene gave much of herself to ensure her children experienced a happy and meaningful childhood—one filled with fond memories of family gatherings, close friendships, summers, holidays, and shared activities. She treasured stories of her uncles and extended family, and she delighted in recounting the adventures she shared with her lifelong best friends, Sylvia and Ellie, whose companionship brought her laughter and joy throughout the years.

Education and faith were deeply important to Arlene. She made certain that her children had the opportunity to receive a Catholic education from kindergarten onward, should they wish. Even during times of hardship, including life after divorce and periods of limited means, Arlene never allowed circumstances to diminish the care she provided. Each school day, when her children walked home for lunch, they were met with a homemade meal and a mother’s steady presence. She also made sure the family enjoyed vacations together—sometimes modest, but always meaningful—even if it was simply a cherished trip to Roseland in Canandaigua.

A loving mother with a deep appreciation for music and the arts, Arlene embraced beauty and creativity in all its forms. She adored jewelry and dressing up for special occasions, finding joy in presenting herself with care and elegance—even when the occasion was volunteer work. Her generous spirit led her to dedicate 26 years of service volunteering with Oasis, Unity Hospital, GEVA Theatre, CMAC, the Auditorium Theatre, and the Eastman Theatre, where she found purpose and community in giving back.

Animals held a special place in Arlene’s heart. Over her lifetime, she lovingly cared for many beloved companions, including Rusty, Duke, Tim, Bambi, Odin, Cassie, Pandora, and her best buddy, Mario. Her compassion extended beyond her own home through generous donations to wildlife and animal organizations, reflecting her deep concern for all living creatures.

Arlene’s interests were as varied as they were enriching. She enjoyed crafts and ceramics, found comfort in reading, and embraced activities such as skeet shooting and bowling. Her voice lifted in church choir, another reflection of her faith and love of music.

Arlene A. Scrooby will be remembered as a devoted mother, a loyal friend, a generous volunteer, and a woman of quiet strength and enduring grace. Her life was one of sacrifice, creativity, compassion, and love—a legacy that lives on in the memories she created and the lives she touched.