Gethel 'Arlene' Cundiff, 68, Passes Away in Indiana

Longtime community member and devoted family matriarch remembered fondly by loved ones.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:22pm

A serene, impressionistic landscape in soft, muted tones, conveying a sense of rural peacefulness and nostalgia.The tranquil natural setting that Arlene Cundiff cherished captures the essence of her life in the close-knit community of Shoals, Indiana.Washington Today

Gethel 'Arlene' Cundiff, a 68-year-old resident of Shoals, Indiana, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital surrounded by her family. Arlene had a varied career, working in textiles, as a substitute teacher, for the Census Bureau, and as an assessor for the Martin County Court House. She was also a dedicated member of the Eagles women's auxiliary for over 18 years and enjoyed outdoor activities like mushroom hunting, fishing, and visiting Hindostan Falls with her husband Jeffrey.

Why it matters

Arlene's passing marks the loss of a beloved community member and matriarch whose life touched many in the Shoals area through her involvement in local organizations, her career, and her close-knit family. Her story reflects the resilience and community spirit that defines small-town Indiana.

The details

Arlene was born on October 20, 1957 in Washington, Indiana to Charles Peoples Sr. and Janice (Sherfick) Peoples. She graduated from Shoals High School and earned an associate's degree in medical billing. Over the years, she held a variety of roles, including working in textiles, serving as a substitute teacher, working for the Census Bureau, and acting as an assessor for the Martin County Court House. Arlene was a dedicated member of the Eagles women's auxiliary for over 18 years and enjoyed calling Bingo at the organization. She and her husband Jeffrey shared a love for the outdoors, spending time mushroom hunting, fishing, and visiting Hindostan Falls.

  • Arlene passed away on Friday, April 3, 2026.
  • Her funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at 2:00 P.M.

The players

Gethel 'Arlene' Cundiff

A 68-year-old resident of Shoals, Indiana who passed away on April 3, 2026. Arlene had a varied career and was a dedicated member of the Eagles women's auxiliary.

Jeffrey Cundiff

Arlene's husband of 46 years, with whom she shared a love for the outdoors.

Charles Peoples Sr.

Arlene's father.

Janice (Sherfick) Peoples

Arlene's mother.

Blake Funeral Home

The funeral home handling Arlene's services.

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What’s next

The funeral service for Arlene Cundiff will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. at Blake Funeral Home in Loogootee, Indiana. Friends may visit from 12:00 P.M. until the time of the service, and burial will follow in South Martin Cemetery.

The takeaway

Arlene Cundiff's passing marks the loss of a beloved community member and matriarch whose life was defined by her involvement in local organizations, her varied career, and her close-knit family. Her story reflects the resilience and community spirit that characterizes small-town Indiana.