Arlene S. Ell

ELL— Elizabeth Arlene Staples Slocum Ell, 84,  of Willet, NY and Baton Rouge, LA, died Dec. 30, 2020.

She was born to Ethel Elizabeth (née Turner) and Thomas Roland Staples on November 11, 1936 in Baton Rouge. Arlene graduated from Baker High School in 1955 and was exceptionally proud of earning a Bachelor’s of Fine Art, Painting from Arizona State University in 1989.

Arlene was lucky in love twice. She married her high school sweetheart Lynn Gipson Slocum in 1955. That marriage ended in an amicable divorce. She later married David Anthony Ell with whom she spent more than 20 years until his passing in 2014.

Arlene is survived by her daughter Elizabeth Ann (Michael) Brando. She is also survived by two grandchildren: Corey Glenn Slocum and Olivia Ann Brando. Arlene was predeceased by her son Lynn Gipson Slocum Jr. in 2010.

“Miss Arlene” will be remembered for her Southern charm and passion for art. She enjoyed flowers, reading, Bible study, church choir, and dining out, particularly Mexican food. She loved watching TV, especially Britcoms and Pitbulls and Parolees.

The Brando family extends their gratitude to Paula Beckwith and Heather Halstrom for the respectful and attentive care Arlene received during her time in New York. A memorial service will be scheduled for a later date once travel and social distancing restrictions have been relaxed. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in her honor to the National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA).