Arlene Pirtle
April 20, 1939 - December 12, 2023

Arlene Cohen Pirtle, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on December 12, 2023, in Jacksonville, NC. She was born on April 20, 1939, in Astoria Queens, NY. Arlene lived a fulfilling life, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of love.

Arlene was born and raised in Queens, NY but life and her marriage brought her to NC where she raised her 5 children and was a devoted homemaker. As her children grew older, she then pursued her real estate license and practice but being a homemaker was her favorite job.

Outside of work, she found joy in various hobbies, including cooking, baking, crafting, sewing, and shopping. She was most known for her homemade apple pie and crust she made at the holidays. Her creativity knew no bounds, and she poured her heart into every project she undertook. She especially loved family gatherings and treasured the moments spent with her loved ones.

In addition to her time in Queens and Jacksonville, Arlene also enjoyed living in the serene beauty of the Smoky Mountains of TN. The tranquility of nature brought her peace and allowed her to appreciate the simple pleasures of life.

Arlene is preceded in death by her loving husband, Jerry Lee Pirtle, as well as her father, Sydney Cohen, and mother, Lillian (Weiss) Cohen.

Those who will forever hold Arlene in their hearts include her daughters, Susan Morales of Jacksonville, Lisa Shivar (Jimmy) of Jacksonville, and Lori Pirtle (Rich Herbert) of Tarpon Springs, FL; sons, Steve Pannasch (Pam) of Crestview, FL and Dean Pannasch of Hudson, FL. Arlene’s grandchildren, Phillip Pannasch, Nicholas Pannasch, Leigha Denton, Aaron Shivar, Matthew Shivar, Deann Pannasch, Monique Morales, and Adrian Morales, were blessed to have her as their grandmother. Her great-grandchildren, Parker Pannasch, Addilyn Pannasch, and Kinsley Shivar, brought immense joy to her life. Arlene is also survived by her sisters, Rita Santoroski of Branford, CT, and Dorothy Mullane of Elizabethtown, NC. Close friends of the family, Marjorie Pannasch and Joyce Coogan, will forever cherish the memories they shared.

Private services will be held at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery, where Arlene will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband.

Arlene’s famous quote, “I have more pride than common sense,” encapsulates her strong spirit and determination. As we bid farewell to Arlene, let us remember her with love, gratitude, and the cherished memories she left behind.

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Coastal Cremations of Jacksonville is serving the family.