Arlene Faye DeJaynes, 92, of Galesburg, died at 6:10 a.m. Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at the Knox County Nursing Home.
She was born January 1, 1933, in Quincy, the daughter of L.R. and Dorothy (Herron) Miller. She married Emil E. DeJaynes on September 17, 1955, in Quincy. He preceded her in death on January 5, 1994, after nearly 39 years of marriage.
She is survived by four sons, Greg (Susan) DeJaynes of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, Bryan DeJaynes of Galesburg, Barry (Kathy) DeJaynes of Galesburg, and Robert (Paula) DeJaynes of Oneida; 14 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; and a sister, Carol Skirvin of Quincy. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Paul on June 25, 2006; and brother-in-law, James Skirvin.
Arlene grew up on a farm, graduating from Augusta High School. Her love of horses continued throughout her adulthood. She had worked as a telephone operator and also at Sears. She will be remembered for her home daycare, where she watched children for however much a family could afford. She was an active member of Hope Wesleyan Church, where she held several offices. She enjoyed bowling, golfing, traveling, and playing cards and dominoes. Her birthdays were spent with family playing cards and drinking hot tea. Arlene was a wonderful cook. She was devoted to her family and rarely missed a grandchild’s sporting event. Her grandchildren will always remember her singing to them, “I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck”.
Visitation will be 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral and Cremation Services. Funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. with Pastor Brian Sexton officiating. Burial will be with Emil in Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Hope Wesleyan Church. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
