Edith Arlene Firkin

Edith Arlene Firkin, 94, departed this life on Friday, March 5, 2010 at Westminster Canterbury in Lynchburg with her loving husband at her side.

Arlene was born on May 7, 1916, the youngest daughter of the late Mary Steppe Holt Ayers and Walter Haslet Holt of Rustburg.

She was the beloved wife of William Walter Firkin and a deeply caring mother.  Arlene was a charter member of Park View United Methodist Church of Lynchburg and her faith truly guided her life.  She loved the outdoors, taking care of children, wildlife and gardening.  Arlene was a devoted wife to Walter, never wanting to leave his side.

Her faith was her life and she lived her life through her love for God, her husband, her children, and her friends.

Survivors include her husband of 79 years, William Walter Firkin; children, Virginia Firkin Burns and her husband, Norman, of Roanoke, Kenneth Jerry Firkin and his wife, Barbara, of Fredericksburg, and Mary Lee Firkin Hickman and her husband, Tim, of Arizona; 9 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, sister-in-law, Harritte Johnson, a niece and nephews.

A memorial service and reception will be held Tuesday, March 9, 2010 at 4:00 p.m. at Heritage Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, if you would like to honor her memory, please consider a contribution to the Heritage Baptist Church, 219 Breezewood Drive, Lynchburg, Virginia, 24502.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family, 434-237-9424.