January 1, 1945 ~ December 11, 2025 (age 80)
Emma Ethel Arwood, known affectionately as Ethel to her loved ones, passed away peacefully at the age of 80 in Auburn, AL, on December 11, 2025. Born on January 1, 1945, in Valley, AL, Ethel’s life was a tapestry of love, care, and joy that touched many.
Ethel’s legacy is carried on by her cherished daughters, Angela (Danny) Boyd and Karen Arwood; her devoted sons, James (Miranda) Langford, Lee Wood, and Rodney (Rachel) Arwood. She was the proud sibling of Margarette Genung and glowed with pride over her fifteen grandchildren, alongside numerous adoring great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Ethel also shared strong bonds with her several nieces and nephews who will continue to cherish her memory.
Preceded in death by her parents, Isaac “Hook” Williams and Marion Williams, Ethel was also the sister to the late Jeanette Williams and Forest Williams. The family circle was equally marked by the absence of her beloved grandson, Aubrey Arwood, with whom she now reunites.
A loving and passionate soul, Ethel’s zest for life was evident in her many interests. Her garden was a refuge of beauty and serenity, where she would spend hours tending to the vibrant flowers and lush plants that flourished under her care. An avid bird watcher, Ethel found delight in the simple pleasure of observing the symphony of birds that visited her backyard. Her love for the outdoors was also mirrored in her enjoyment of fishing, a pastime where she basked in the serenity of nature’s embrace.
Indoors, Ethel’s competitive yet merry spirit came alive during spirited card games. She relished in the camaraderie and laughter these games produced, creating warm memories with family and friends. However, her greatest joy was undoubtedly the time spent with her grandchildren, whose growth and achievements she nurtured with all the love her heart could give.
Ethel’s impact on those around her was immeasurable. Her loving care and boundless passion will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. As the sun sets on Ethel’s life, her spirit continues to shine brightly in the hearts of those she leaves behind, a beacon of the love and warmth she so freely shared. Her memory will be a treasure locked safely in the hearts of her family, friends, and everyone touched by her extraordinary life.
Funeral services for Ethel will be held on Tuesday, December 16th, 2025, at 2:30 PM (EDT) at the Johnson Brown-Service Chapel in Valley, Alabama. Pastor Phillip Saylor will officiate. Interment will be at Fairfax cemetery in Valley, Alabama. Mrs. Ethel’s family will receive friends for visitation Monday, December 15th, 2025, at 6:00 to 8:00 PM (EDT).
Please visit Mrs. Ethel’s Memorial Tribute page at www.johnsonbrownservicefh.com to leave a kind word for her family, share a memory of Mrs. Ethel, or to light a Remembrance Candle in her memory.
Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home of Valley directing.
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