Salem – Arlene Mae Coldwell, 84, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 2, 2025 after a courageous battle with Parkinson's disease. Born in 1940, the daughter of Carlton "Tip" and Mabel (Chadwick) Tyler, Arlene was a lifelong resident of Salem.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband of over 60 years, Dwight A. Coldwell. Arlene was the cherished mother of three children: Arthur (Janice) Coldwell, Sandy (Brian) Adams, and Linda (Rina Salerno) Coldwell. She also leaves behind her loving siblings, Richard (Pat) Tyler, Betty Campbell, and Laura Coldwell, as well as four grandchildren—Cassandra (George) Conety, David Adams, Kaitlyn (Frank) Costa, and Meghan (Ethan) English—and four great-grandchildren. Arlene will also be deeply missed by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

Arlene's lifelong passion for music began at a young age. She played both the piano and organ at the Salem United Methodist Church from the age of 14 until she was 80, and she also shared her talent by teaching piano and clarinet to numerous students. For many years, Arlene performed with the Washington County Band and the OBQ (Old Broads Quartet), bringing joy to many through her musical contributions.  In addition to her love for music, Arlene worked for several years at the Salem Washington Academy, where she taught music. She later enjoyed a fulfilling career at the First National Bank of Glens Falls. Following her retirement, Arlene found joy working at Gardenworks, where she continued to play and share her love for life and music.

Known for her adventurous spirit and love of travel, Arlene was a woman who feared nothing. Whether she was with family, friends, or her beloved community, she always had a warm smile and a kind word to share. Her giving nature, sly sense of humor, and deep compassion left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Arlene was also a dedicated advocate for volunteering and supporting her local community. In honor of her memory, the family encourages acts of kindness toward neighbors and loved ones. A celebration of life will be held in her honor on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 499 Bunker Hill Road, Salem, NY, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of one's choice. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice Nurse Jill T. and the caring staff at the Home of the Good Shepherd in Moreau for their compassionate care.

The McClellan-Gariepy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

To express your sympathy or share a memory, please visit www.gariepyfuneralhomes.com