Arlene Kurilla Obituary

MCDONALD - Arlene G. Kurilla, 81, passed away peacefully, Saturday afternoon, Aug. 2, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, with her family by her side. Arlene was born Nov. 13, 1943, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late James and Jeannette Neff and was a lifelong area resident. She was a proud 1961 graduate of McDonald High School and devoted her life to being a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. In her later years, she also worked at Carlisle's Department Store until she retired. Arlene was a woman of deep faith and unwavering devotion. A lifelong Catholic, she lived her beliefs daily and was a longtime member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. She was also active in her community, serving as a member of the McDonald Garden Club and the Knights of Columbus Council 4658 Ladies Auxiliary, where she served as past president. Nothing brought Arlene more joy than being surrounded by her family. She cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and could often be found on the sidelines of their games, cheering them on with pride and enthusiasm. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering support will be missed beyond measure. Arlene is survived by her husband of nearly 64 years, Lawrence S. Kurilla, whom she married Aug. 12, 1961; her son, Thomas L. Kurilla of East Palestine; three grandchildren, Hanna (Niall) McGee of Howland, Stephen (Emily) Kurilla of Salem and Katelyn Kurilla of Nashville, Tenn.; four great-grandchildren, Hunter, Sadie and Elly Kurilla and Mia McGee, with another "on the way"; her brother, Bill Neff of Boardman; and many extended family members. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Colleen Kurilla; a brother, James Neff; and a sister, Jeannette Neff. Family and friends may call from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home 477 N. Meridian Rd., Youngstown. Funeral services will begin at 10:15 a.m. Monday, Aug. 11, at the funeral home and continue with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 618 Ohio Ave., McDonald. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Austintown, where Arlene will be laid to rest beside her daughter. To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.