Obituary of Arlene Bernice Worthington

Arlene Worthington, 97, of Boise died on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2023.  Services will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday the 25^th at Hillview United Methodist Church.

Arlene was born September 16, 1925, in Coon Rapids, Iowa.  After high school Arlene moved to Boise, Idaho with her mother and siblings.  She attended Boise Junior College and Boise State University.  She married William R. “Bill” Worthington on August 24, 1946.  Together they raised four wonderful children.

Arlene was an educator teaching kindergarten, 2^nd grade at Highlands Elementary, and later Title One Reading Program.  She actively worked with the legislature to place kindergarten in Boise Schools.

Arlene was an active member of Hillview United Methodist Church for over 45 years participating in many activities.  Each year she stood on the Capitol steps advocating “Add the Words” in support of LGBT rights.

At the Idaho State Legislature Arlene testified several times in support of all persons with a disability, speaking on behalf of Community Partnership, Inc. (now Rise Incorporated), where daughter, Janice, receives services.

Arlene was also an active member of P.E.O. Chapter AY.

Close to Arlene’s heart was the cabin her husband built in Smiths Ferry.  There was never a day that she did not want to be at the cabin taking in all its beauty.

Friends and family were important to Arlene and she is remembered for her energy (ever ready ball of fire), vivaciousness, laughter and joy of life.

Arlene is survived by children: Cinda Volger (Jim), Jon Worthington (Bryan), Janice Worthington; daughter-in-law, Angela Worthington; grandchildren include: Aaron Volger (Liz), Amy Robinson (Shane), Clint Worthington (Amber), Alexis Muench, and Arica Black (Trent), Jami Volger, Eric Volger (Cari); great grandchildren: Austin Volger, Josie Volger, Lucas Worthington, Emma Worthington, Kade Robinson, Coleman Robinson, Julia Muench, Emily Muench, Mason Black and Barrett Black.

The family request memorials be made in her name to Rise Incorporated, 3040 N. Five Mile, Boise, 83713; Hillview United Methodist Church, 8525 Ustick Road, Boise, 83704 or your favorite charity. Services are under the care of Accent Funeral Home, Meridian.