CAMBRIDGE - Arlene M. Harper of Cambridge passed away peacefully early Tuesday, May 24, 2016 at Mallard Bay Care Center, Cambridge. She had been hospitalized since suffering a severe stroke in late Jan. Her devoted husband of 53 years was with her till the end. Born Jan. 8, 1946, she was a daughter of the late Anna Belle McGlaughlin and Ashland Ruark. She grew up in Bishops Head and spent most of her adolescent years with her grandmother and mentor Iva McGlaughlin. She attended the local schools in the Crapo area and graduated from South Dorchester High School. Upon completion of her schooling she married her high school sweetheart Tawes on Aug. 3, 1963. She became a traditional housewife and was the adhesion of the family structure. Together they had two sons. Arlene was always so fond of Christmas. She always made it the special occasion that it really should be. She enjoyed traveling with her husband and loved getting away, especially to beautiful Lancaster, Pa. Arlene is survived by her husband, Tawes; sons, William and Michael; brother, William "BB" Ruark and his wife Chris of Longmeadow, Mass.; grandson, Tawes Allan "TA" Harper; mother-in-law, Olive Harper; brother-in-law, Bobby Harper and wife Maureen; uncle, Willis McGlaughlin; along with nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Friday, May 27, 2016 beginning 1 p.m. at the Cambridge Wesleyan Church, 803 Race Street with Pastor Jack Diehl officiating. The family will receive friends the hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Cambridge Wesleyan Church. Arrangements entrusted to Newcomb and Collins Funeral Home, Pa, Cambridge. To share memories and send online condolences visit www.newcombcollins.com