Arlene Reed

Arlene Anna, (Weisner) Reed, 97, of Reading, passed away Friday, January 8, 2021, in Keystone Villa, Fleetwood. She was Married to Eugene C. Reed, (deceased), and is survived by two children, Kurt E. Reed, (married to Peggy A. Reed) of Reading, and Craig A. Reed of Leesport. She has one surviving grandson, Evan M.L. Reed, and one grandson predeceased, Samuel B. Reed.

She was born November 4, 1923, to Sadie E. Seidel and Herbert H. Weisner, of Blandon.  Her mother Sadie died from Tuberculosis when Arlene was 5 years old, and she was raised by her aunt and uncle, Effie and Leon Schemeck. Their daughter, her cousin, was a year or two younger, and also named Arlene. The two cousins formed a country music act known as the “Arlene Sisters”, (guitar and mandolin). They performed regularly on radio WRAW, as well as popular country venues of the day. She also performed with “The Possum Hollow Wranglers” and “The Lone Star Cowboys and Cowgirls”.

She work for Western Electric/Lucent Technologies for 17 years, retiring in 1988. She was an avid cat lover, and was known as The “Cat Lady of Greenfields”.  Working with local cat rescue groups, she trapped, spayed/neutered, and released nearly 40 feral cats in her neighborhood.

The smell of chocolate cake usually permeated the house, as she was always baking cakes for birthdays, holidays, friends, and family.

The family will like to thank the caregivers from Keystone Villa, for all their hard work and support.

Private Graveside service will be held at Spies Zion Cemetery at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Humane Society of Berks County/Reading, 1801 N. 11th St., Reading, PA. 19604

Bean Funeral Home, 1605 Rockland Street, Hampden Heights is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.beanfuneralhomes.com.