Born: Aug. 21, 1936, in Ottawa, Illinois
Died: Oct. 12, 2023, in Peoria, Arizona
Zoe Arlene Miller Shaver has been called to Heaven and is now at peace with the angels above. A beloved Mother of 3 sons, a grandmother of 6, and friend to countless many, Arlene was a thoughtful and caring person and a gentle soul, but at the same time very driven to create her own success and tenaciously support the growth and successes of her sons and all who were close to her.
In Heaven, Arlene joins her parents, Harlow and Zoe Miller, and 4 of her 5 brothers: Richard Miller (wife Peg), Donald Miller (wife Martha), Gordon Miller (wife Verdelle), and Paul Miller (wife Rica). She was also preceded in passing by her sons’ father, Eric Shaver, as well as husbands William Hoerner, Wiley Beacom and Stanley Wright. In this world, she leaves sons Steve Shaver (wife Gloria), Scott Shaver (wife Melissa), and Stu Shaver (wife Vickie). Her grandchildren include Ryan, Lauren, Scotty, CJ, Zac and Kris Shaver. She is also survived by her brother Ronald Miller (wife Kathy), Plano, Illinois.
Arlene grew up in Earlville, Illinois, in a farm community environment where bonds with family and friends were strong and life-long. After graduating from Monmouth College, she spent most of her adult life in Galesburg, Illinois, but also lived in Ottawa, Illinois, Indianapolis, Harding, Illinois, and for her last 12 years, in Peoria, Arizona. She was mostly a teacher by profession, but often worked more than one job in order to ensure her ability to take care of her 3 boys. Arlene was a devout Christian, with a subtly strong personality, and was an incredibly positive influence on her children and grandchildren.
In addition to teaching in the Galesburg and Ottawa school districts for more than 25 years (and being named in Who’s Who of American Teachers, 1972), Arlene was active in churches wherever she lived, and served for many years as the Director of Christian Education at First Presbyterian Church in Galesburg. She was also the owner/manager of Arlene’s women’s apparel store in Galesburg, and was a board member and President of the Galesburg Downtown Business Association. Other memberships included: 35-year member of P.E.O. Sisterhood Women’s Philanthropic Organization, the Exchange Club Service Organization, and the Sorosis of Galesburg Literary Club.
She was an avid sports fan, always vocally present at her sons’ and grandchildren’s multitude of sports activities. She was also a passionate fan of the Chicago Cubs, and always had a special affinity for Ron Santo!
She will be greatly missed every day, but her family and loved ones will always know she is a part of who we are, and all are better for it.
A small graveside memorial service will take place at 2:30 on Nov. 11, 2023, in Earlville. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Arlene’s name to the Illinois Valley Animal Rescue: illinoisvalleyanimalrescue.net.
