Arlena M. Holmes

Arlena was born Arlena Marie Lentz on October 31, 1929, to her parents, Lewis E. Lentz and Ola M. (Miller) Lentz, in Dongola, Illinois. She was 93 years old when she passed on July 16, 2023, in Fishers, IN.

She moved to Indianapolis in October of 1947 where she worked for a finance company for many years, raised her family, then worked for Lawrence Township Schools until her retirement in May of 1996. She then split time caring for her mother with her sister, Retha. She also cared for Jason before and after school.

Arlena met Wilbur D. Holmes in mid-October in 1953, on a blind date. By the end of the month, they were engaged, and married December 24, 1953, in Dongola. They spent almost 53 loving years together until his passing on August 19, 2006.

She enjoyed gardening, canning, flea markets, antique malls, garage sales and Fenton baskets. Boy did she enjoy her Fenton baskets! Arlena was also a 20-year member of the former church, Lawrence Church of Christ and then continued her dedication to the Eastside Church of Christ.

Arlena is survived by her children, David L Holmes of Wanamaker, IN, and Gina M. (Holmes) Harrison of Oaklandon, IN; grandson, Jason W. Harrison of Oaklandon, IN; sister, Retha (Pete) Burnam; and several nieces and a nephew.

She is preceded in death by her parents and husband.

Visitation for Arlena will be from 4-7pm on Monday, July 24, 2023, at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East – 10722 E. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46229. A funeral service will take place the following day at 10am on Tuesday, July 25, 2023. Entombment will take place at Washington Park East Cemetery.