Arlene Theresa Pender

It is with deep sadness that we announce that Arlene Theresa Pender, age 64, of Rockville Maryland, passed away unexpectedly on July 5, 2025. Her loss was sudden and devastating, and the hole left behind is one that cannot be filled.

She was born on June 30, 1961 in to Nancy and Elijah Morris, who preceded her in death. 

From the start, Arlene lived with a fierce and passionate spirit. A woman with a heart of gold and a strength that ran deep. She was one of a kind. Her compassion was endless and her stubborn streak was always rooted in love which made her a true force of nature.

She poured herself into her family with everything she had. Her greatest devotion was to her husband, John Pender, whom she loved and supported through everything life brought their way. 

Arlene was a proud and loving mother to her two children, Matthew Pender (Arina) and Nicole Grass (Austin), and nothing lit up her heart more than her granddaughter.

She carried both love and affection for her four siblings, Cheri Daly (Chuck), Brenda Beuchert (Kenny), Lynn Downs (John), and Steven Morris (Jenny). 

In her free time, Arlene loved her boat and spending time on the river in the sunshine with her friends in West Virginia. Here is where she found her peace on hot summer days that brought her some of her greatest memories.

She was the one everyone turned to. The helper, the doer, the caregiver. Whether it was dropping everything to show up, cooking a favorite meal, or offering a sharp word of wisdom (and sometimes sarcasm), she gave her whole self to the people she loved.

Arlene's passing came far too soon. She will be missed every single day. Not just for what she did, but for who she was. Her laugh, her warmth, and her fierce love lives on in those who were lucky enough to be loved by her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 26th, at 2:00pm at the Grass family residence located at 4021 Fulford St. Olney Maryland, 20832. Friends and family are invited to honor Arlene's memory and celebrate the incredible woman she was.

There will be food and refreshments but please feel free to bring a dish to honor her if you would like. 

In lieu of flowers, please share your favorite memories here on the Tribute Wall.