Arlene Dusini

Arlene Evelyn Dusini passed away in Dover on March 9, 2025, following a period of declining health.

She was born in Uhrichsville on March 6, 1936, to the late F. Oren and Ruth S. (Bailey) Gray.

Arlene grew up in Uhrichsville and New Philadelphia, graduating from New Philadelphia High School in 1954. She then attended Eastern Nazarene College in Quincy, Massachusetts. After leaving college, she moved to Washington, D.C., and later San Francisco, where she worked as a civilian for the Department of the Navy. Arlene returned to New Philadelphia, where she married the late Frank Dusini on September 24, 1960. Together, Frank and Arlene spent most of their lives in New Philadelphia, raising their family.

A creative spirit, Arlene had a deep love for art and music. She served as the organist at Sacred Heart Church for many years and was also an accomplished painter. After her children were older, she worked as a bookkeeper at Chase Bank.

She is survived by her five children, Bryan Dusini (Victoria) of Brooklyn, NY, Marc Dusini (Marie) of Akron, Doug Dusini (Rachel) of Houston, TX, Cassy Gowins (Tim) of Yulee, FL, and Tanja Birtcher (Kris) of Kempner, TX; and her brother, Wayne Gray. She is also survived by nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren: Lauren Birtcher; Mackenzie Armstrong (Jeremy); Kellie Reece (Patrick); Erin Gowins; Jack Birtcher (Amanda); Jake Gowins; Lexi Birtcher; Nicolas Lizarazo; Gwen Lizarazo; and Hadley and Theo Armstrong; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank, in 2018; and her brother, Verne Gray.

She loved her family and she will be greatly missed.

Father Jeff Coning will celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial in Sacred Heart Church on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 beginning at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior in the church. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery at New Philadelphia.

Memorial contributions in Arlene’s memory may be directed to Sacred Heart Church, c/o the Building Fund, 139 3rd NE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.