Lois Arlene Applewhite

May 24, 1938 - April 1, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Arlene Applewhite on April 1st, 2025, at the age of 86. Arlene was a pillar of strength, bravery, and unyielding positivity. Arlene was also known for her warmth, generosity, and the undeniably loving spirit she brought into the world.

Arlene was born on May 24th, 1938, to Pete and Fern McWatters.

Arlene married her first love, Jewel Westmoreland, in 1954, and they had two daughters—Kathe (1956-1963) and Lois. Arlene and Jewel were married until he died in 1960 from HAE, a rare genetic disorder, at the young age of 26, leaving her a widow with two little children at the age of 22.

Arlene then met and married Jack Applewhite, her beloved husband of 45 years. They had a daughter, Juanita Reifschneider.

Arlene was known for her strong will, unwavering determination, and deep love and support for her family and community. She worked alongside her husband, managing various businesses in Mendota. Arlene volunteered at the Firebaugh Senior Center and the Ted C Wills Center in Fresno. She received numerous awards for her dedicated service to seniors and her community.

She was preceded in death by her father, Pete McWatters; mother, Fern McWatters; daughter, Kathe Westmoreland; twin brother, Allen (Mac) McWatters; younger brother, Alvin McWatters; sister-in-law Judy McWatters; and great-grandson, Grayson Shubin, along with many other loved ones throughout her life.

She is survived by her two daughters, Lois Perry-Park, son-in-law Kendall Park, daughter Juanita Reifschneider, and son-in-law Robert Reifschneider. Three grandchildren: Katherine Shubin (Lucas), Alyson Rendon (Jeremiah), and Ty Reifschneider (Veronica). She has four great-grandchildren: Robert Shubin, Cole Shubin, Arya Shubin, Juniper Rendon—and many nieces and nephews.

Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home provides services. Graveside services will be on April 17th at 11 a.m. at Fresno Memorial Gardens in Fresno. Special thanks to the nurses, aides, and all the staff at Lenity Hospice.