Arlene Bessey (Parker) Temple

Arlene Bessey Parker Temple, (88), of DeLand(FL), died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones August 9, 2025. 

Born June 13, 1937, to Merl and Glenna Bessey of Oakland(ME), she spent half her life in Maine before escaping the cold to sunny Florida with late husband John Temple.  

An EMVTI graduate, Arlene spent decades working as a medical laboratory technician in the blood bank. After retirement Arlene could often be found reading, sewing, helping others and volunteering at Woodland Towers where she served on the resident counsel. 

A true matriarch, Arlene was happiest in the company of family. She will best be remembered playing games, rocking babies, sharing stories and basking in the chaos of her large, blended family. She is survived by her children Bruce and Pam Parker, Tamara Parker, Laurel Ward, Rebecca and Tom Davis, Brian and Kim Parker, her siblings Sandra Noel and Marion Sabins, fifteen grandchildren, thirty+ great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild and many others who called her Mom, Grandma, big-Grandma, Aunt or friend. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband John Temple, daughter Bridget Honeycutt, grandson Jared Holyoke, and son-in-law Erwin Dorr Sr. 

Visitation and remembrance will be held August 28, 3- 5pm, New Covenant Baptist Church DeLand. 

Memorial and Internment will follow on November 10, 10 am, New Covenant Baptist Church DeLand.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Arlene’s name to your favorite local charity.

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