Mabel Arlene Walsh
October 5, 1926 – January 1, 2026

Mabel Arlene Walsh, 99, of Lansdale, PA (née Hendricks), passed away peacefully early on New Year’s Day at Elm Terrace Gardens. She was the only child of Willis and Elva (Overholtzer) Hendricks. Arlene grew up in Kulpsville, PA, living across from and attending J. Henry Specht School. She met the love of her life, Donald Walsh, while working at the Dexdale Hosiery Factory in Lansdale. After patiently waiting for Donald to return home from serving in the Navy during WWII, they were married on November 2, 1946.

Arlene is survived by her children: Cheryl Kelly (John), Donald Walsh (Marie), and Kevin Walsh (Donna). She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Jennifer Smith (David), Donald Walsh III (Andrea), Jonathan Kelly (Andrea), Cassie Dunar, Joseph Walsh (Alice), and Andria Merkel (Kyle). She also cherished her great-grandchildren: Benjamin Walsh, Ryan Walsh, Aiden Walsh, Colby Smith, Milo Smith, Griffin Smith, Austin Dunar, Chase Gular, and Garrett Merkel. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, and her grandson, Matthew Joseph Walsh.Arlene’s life was truly defined by the word serve. Her family and friends were always her highest priority. She lovingly cared for her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and friends, always placing the needs of others before her own.

Mom, Grandmom, and Great-Grandmom would go to any length to make sure everyone was cared for—an enduring example of her selflessness was waiting outside for the school bus so her grandsons could stay warm and dry indoors until it arrived. Even later in life, while confined to a wheelchair, Arlene continued to care for others, doting on her roommate with the same devotion she showed her family.

Arlene found great joy in caring for and championing others. She spoiled her family with elaborate Sunday dinners and thoughtful gifts, and she was a familiar, smiling presence at her grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s sporting events and musical activities.

Arlene spent the last five years of her life in the compassionate care of the staff at Elm Terrace Gardens, where her every need was lovingly met. The family is deeply grateful to everyone who so graciously cared for her and lovingly called her “Mom.”

She was truly one of a kind.