Ada Arlene Kopyar
Ada Arlene Kopyar, lovingly known as “Grandma,” went to her heavenly reward on Saturday evening, May 30, 2026, at Park Health Center in St. Clairsville, Ohio.
Born on October 7, 1938, in Ozark, Ohio, Arlene was the daughter of the late Charles and Beulah Truex Gibbons and her stepfather, Delmas Gibbons. Arlene retired from Kroger Bakery and Deli in St. Clairsville and also worked for Best Products
Arlene was a faithful member of the church of Christ and lived her life guided by her faith, compassion, and devotion to her family. While she experienced more than her share of heartbreak and loss throughout her lifetime, she never allowed those sorrows to diminish the love she had for those around her. Instead, she carried on with remarkable strength, always putting her family first and finding joy in the people she loved.
Family was the center of Arlene’s world. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother who treasured every moment spent with her children and grandchildren. Her home was a place where family gathered, stories were shared, and everyone was welcomed with open arms. She celebrated the accomplishments of her loved ones, offered comfort during difficult times, and never missed an opportunity to let her family know how much they meant to her.
Even through the profound losses she endured, Arlene’s love remained steadfast. She carried the memories of those who passed before her close to her heart while continuing to pour her love into the generations that followed. Her resilience, strength, and unwavering dedication to her family became an example to all who knew her.
Arlene’s love extended far beyond her immediate family. She became an honorary mom and grandma to many, opening her heart and her home to friends, neighbors, and anyone in need of encouragement, advice, or simply a listening ear. To countless people, she was a source of comfort, wisdom, and unconditional love. Many who were not related to her by blood proudly considered her family because of the kindness and care she freely gave.
In addition to her parents and stepfather, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William John “Pap” Kopyar; infant daughter, Amy; daughter, Jelena Rose; son, Jerry; son-in-law, Bob Jeffries; granddaughter, Brienda Sue; great-grandson, Wyatt; stepbrothers, Jim and Garry Gibbons; and her brother-in-law, Deanie “Goober” Gramlich.
Left to cherish her memory are her children, Betty Rose (Floyd) Shuttleworth, Judy (Ed Queer) McMillan, Julie Ann (Rich) Daley, Billie Jo DeFelice, Cyndi Kopyar, Florian (Maggie) Kopyar, and Jennifer Jeffries; as well as, Danny McMillan and Karen Pickens. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren. Also surviving is her sister Judy Ann Gramlich, her special niece Judeana, and many extended family members and dear friends.
Arlene’s greatest legacy is the family she loved so fiercely. The lessons she taught, the memories she created, and the unconditional love she shared will continue to live on through the many lives she touched. Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing she is reunited with those who have gone before her and resting in the peace of her heavenly home.
In accordance with her wishes, there will be no funeral services.
Toothman Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.