Arlene Kay Clifton, 80, a Northland resident of Kansas City, MO (formerly of Fairway, KS) passed away on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at Tiffany Springs Rehabilitation. Arlene was born June 22, 1943 to Delbert James and Norma (Hedlund) Clifton in Lincoln, Nebraska.
She graduated high school from William Chrisman in 1961; and worked many temporary jobs while continuing her education at Metropolitan Jr. College and Central Technical Institute in Kansas City, MO. Participating in a work/study program at University of Missouri in Rolla, she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science in 1972 – one of only 5 women in that program that year. A lifelong learner, Arlene earned many certificates, including FLMI (Fellow, Life Management Institute) after completing the rigorous 10-course LOMA program.
Arlene spent the majority of her working career as an IT Systems Development Project Manager for Waddell and Reed in Kansas City, MO. She didn’t live her life “out loud”, but in a quiet, small voice, she worked and led her team of programmers and was recognized for her intelligence and abilities throughout her career. She also worked at National Fidelity Life Insurance Co, United Investors Life Insurance Co. and Blue Cross/Blue Shield.
Arlene was a very humble and quiet person with many hidden talents. First and foremost was her compassion and deeply-rooted selfless dedication to her sister and parents, friends, colleagues, neighbors, church, and many, many charitable organizations to whom she gave generously. She served her church, Trinity Lutheran in Fairway, KS, including making quilts and helping run “garage sales” there. She also volunteered with Kansas City Literacy, once being named Tutor of the Year. She also served as Secretary of KC’s chapter of ASM/DPMA.
Few knew that she played both piano and organ and that, at one point in her life, dabbled in painting and needlepoint. She had a passion for reading, hockey, figure skating, music and art. And she loved her cats. She even fed squirrels.
Arlene will forever be remembered as a loving sister, a good friend to many and a mentor to many men and women in the IT profession. She was extremely generous in both time and donations. She never complained about anything – not even the weather – she just kept going forward.
Arlene was preceded in death by both parents. She is survived by a sister, Marilyn Jones of Milan, MO, and many dear friends. There are no formal services scheduled at this time. Memories of Arlene and condolences to the family and friends may be shared at meyersfuneralchapel.com.
My deepest condolences to her family. I worked with Arlene for many years. She was a wonderful person, she will be remembered by lots of people.
My deepest sympathies to Arlene’s family and friends. A wonderful person and will be missed greatly. I had the pleasure of working with Arlene at Waddell and Reed.
To Arlene’s family and friends, please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss.
Arlene will be remembered for her kindness, compassion, hard work and gentle spirit.
It was a privilege to have known her.
Arlene was a great IT manager. She was surprisingly funny and joined a few of her coworkers on road trips. Her knowledge was massive. RIP friend.