Arlene Stansbury

Arlene Watson Stansbury passed away on March 6, 2019 shortly after her 93rd birthday in Overland Park, Kansas. Arlene was born at home on a dairy farm to Orr and Rosie Watson. She was soon joined by younger brother Bob, to whom she remained close throughout her life. After high school, Arlene married Russell Ridge and they had four children: Vicki, Steve, Deb, and Bob. When Arlene and Russ decided to divorce, Arlene learned shorthand and brushed up on her typing to support her four children. She got a job as a secretary at Westmar College and then, after gaining some experience, took a job with Iowa Public Service. Before long, she met Daryl and her life changed again. Arlene and her kids married Daryl and his kids Keith, Sharon, and Rob in 1971 and moved to Denison, Iowa to join the Stansbury home. Arlene and Daryl shared a love for faith, family, music, and adventures. Their deep love for each other and their children laid the foundation for a long history of adventures. Arlene was always up for whatever crazy plan they hatched for six kids, a station wagon, and a camper.

Arlene loved singing in the church choir and being a member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood. She loved books and learning, visiting with friends, and meeting new people. But most of all, Arlene loved her family — all 7 children, 18 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and many close and loving friends.

Arlene and Daryl spent many of their later years visiting their large extended family all over the country. As Arlene’s health declined and she became frailer the adventures slowed. Family then came to Arlene, where stories of past adventures were never in short supply. After a brief illness, Arlene died at home. Surrounded by most of her large, loving family Arlene passed peacefully from a restful sleep into the arms of the Lord.

She is survived by – Daryl Stansbury (husband); children: Steven Ridge, Keith Stansbury (wife Kathy), Debra Hauser nee Ridge (husband John), Sharon Rathbun nee Stansbury (husband Roy), Bob Ridge (wife Julie), Robert Stansbury (wife Patti); grandchildren: Charlie, Leif, Rachel, Jonathan, Jessica, Rosa, Joy, Heather, Isaiah, Sierra, Lauren, Lindsey, Atticus, Ripley, Mary, David, Allie, and Elizabeth.  She was preceded in death by her brother Bob Watson and by her daughter Vicki.