Nina Arlene Xanders, born on August 17, 1939, in Livingston, Tennessee, to Sarah Melinda Adkins and Oscar Reeder, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025. Known to most as Arlene, she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.

Arlene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward Xanders, Sr., and their son, Kendall Xanders. She was also preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Leola Bell Camden, Cletus Reeder, and Junior Reeder. She is survived by her only living sibling, Glenda Reeder.

On May 27, 1959, Arlene married Edward Xanders, and together they raised their two sons, Edward Xanders, Jr. and Kendall Xanders, first in Illinois and later in Mount Dora, Florida, where they spent their later years enjoying a peaceful life.

After many years of dedicated service in retail, Arlene retired and found joy in the companionship of her church family and close friends. She cherished the opportunity to relax and enjoy the simpler pleasures of life.

Arlene had a love for decorating, cooking, gardening, and thrifting, and she was always on the lookout for the next great find at a yard sale. Her home was a reflection of her creativity and care. Above all, she loved her family deeply. She made sure to never forget a birthday, always going out of her way to make each person feel special on their day.

She shared many wonderful memories with her nieces, Debbie Krajcik, Carol Camden Aguilar, Sharon Mattingly , Karen Baker, Boni Hamblin, and many more with whom she enjoyed shopping, beach outings, and simply spending time together.

Arlene is survived by her son, Edward Xanders, Jr.; grandchildren, Nicole Xanders, Kristen Brown, Sarah Dempsey, and Craig Xanders ; great-grandchildren, Kevin, Emmy, Madison, Thomas, Eli, Keaton, Maia, Jake, Cassidy, and Tyler; and a great-great-grandchild, Colson (Cassidy Brown).

Her kindness, love, and devotion will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Arlene's memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and her legacy of warmth and generosity will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.