Emma Arlene Bunch

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Emma “Arlene” Bunch of Morningside, Maryland. Our beloved Mother, and the heart and soul of our family. Arlene was born on February 27, 1939, and passed away on April 18, 2025 at the age of 86. She was more than a mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend. Her faith in the Lord was unwavering, and a constant in her life. Her gentle spirit, selfless heart, and kindness touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Always putting others before herself. Her presence brought comfort, her sense of humor brought joy, and her love will remain with us always. At 16 she left her childhood home in Glace, WV to pursue better opportunities. Determined to build a better life and chase dreams that stretched far beyond the mountains. While working at Peoples Drug Store as a fountain clerk in Arlington, VA, she met the love of her life in 1957 and later married Raymond Bunch. Her modest dreams were always to marry and have children. She chose to be a stay at home mom, and later would care for her grandchildren as well. The lessons she taught, stories she told, and the warmth she gave will live on in our hearts forever. Arlene was preceded in death by her mother Etta Hoke, and her father Edward Hoke of White Sulphur Springs, WV. Her beloved husband of 30 years Raymond Bunch. Her grandson Jeremy Rose. Her brothers Posey, Jerry, and Junior, and her sisters Hilda, Mildred, Shirley, and Bernice. She is survived by her son David Bunch, and her daughter Michelle Rose. Her grandson Kristopher (Megan) Bunch, grandson Joshua Rose, granddaughter Kelisha (Michael) McNutt, grandson Jordan (Jen) Rose, granddaughter Sabrina Rose, and granddaughter Brittany Hardiman. 12 great grandchildren, 2 brothers, 2 sisters, and many nieces and nephews. A service will be held on Friday, June 6th at 1:00 pm at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery in the Chapel.