She was born in Altoona, daughter of Erma (Ciampoli) Kennedy and the late Edgar Kennedy. She married Ronald Schirf on Sept. 17, 1966, at St. Mark's Catholic Church.

Surviving are her loving husband of 49 years; a daughter, Rhonda Schirf-Hickey (Michael) of Egg Harbor Township, N.J.; a son, Jeffrey of Minotola, N.J.; three grandchildren: Morgan and twins Alyssa and Avery of Egg Harbor Township; and her mother.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Arthur Kennedy.

Arlene was a 1964 graduate of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School. She retired in June 2013 from UPMC Altoona with 20 years of service as a telephone operator. She also had previously worked for Bell Telephone and Penn State Altoona Bookstore. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Arlene enjoyed the beach, boardwalk and New Jersey shore. She also enjoyed knitting and shopping in Cape May.

Friends will be received from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9, 2015, at Santella Funeral Home, where a vigil for the deceased will be held. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Committal will be held at Calvary Mausoleum.