Nellie R. Arner
- Editor
- Jul 26
- 3 min read
Nellie R. Arner, 95, of Rimersburg, Pennsylvania, passed away on July 15, 2025.
Career: In 1950 a fearless 20-year-old mother of two opened a flower shop, Arner’s Florist. She was a woman in a man’s world who learned the steps of business one mistake and one success at a time. A minimum of six days a week for exactly 60 years she worked creating stunning floral arrangements, taking care of paperwork, employees, and most of all her customers. While making prom corsages, she was as excited as any 17-year-old going to the prom. She envisioned each bride walking down the aisle with her bouquet as if it was herself. Nellie also helped her husband, Jim Arner, with the operation of greenhouses. Her mind, heart and soul whirled around her business. She was more than great at it. Nellie was a true artist.
Personal Mountain: Never a caregiver, she faced a challenge that would surpass any other when Jim’s health required kidney dialysis, three times a week. The Pittsburgh hospital was too far to travel frequently. A rarity at the time, the Arner’s received a dialysis machine which Nellie learned to operate. She often remarked that administering an 18-gauge needle into his arm nearly caused her to faint. Fortitude indeed, for six years.
Community Committed: Nellie was the first woman president of the Rimersburg Chamber of Commerce, was recognized as Citizen of the Year, more than once. She worked tirelessly on the Rimersburg Veteran Memorial Park, as well as the president and board member of Southern Clarion County Development Corporation. Nellie was a driving force in the creation of Community Days and the two Centennial celebrations. For all the meetings, phone calls, and letter writing the Rimersburg mayor proclaimed ‘Nellie R. Arner Day’ on November 12, 1998. She was a stalwart supporter of local business. Extending beyond citizen concerns she volunteered for Christmas Seals and the American Lung Association for decades.
Generosity: Brief examples. Far beyond the price charged, when a church was decorated, it was to the max. In addition to an extra flower or bow, Nellie offered the use of her land nearly rent free to three different elderly people, and a healthcare professional’s home & office. Her private residence welcomed two different young homeless adults, for months. Interests: Music. It would be a treat to hear her yodel. Nellie was disappointed she never conquered the piano. She was simply too busy. In her 70’s & 80’s she became a groupie, secretary, and drummer for a local country/bluegrass band, My Little Nashville. Fun and Joy abound late in life.
Religion: A member of the Rimersburg United Church of Christ from 1948 to 2022. “My husband’s great grandfather helped to start this church, and I will be a member forever.”
Family: Nellie married her high school sweetheart at age 18 and widowed at age 51. She lived alone for over 40 years. Mother of four, Sheri (deceased) Jim Jr., Georgia & Bill. Nellie fought to convince her husband that ‘girls should go to college as much as a boy.’ A woman ahead of her time. Her two daughters graduated college and gave their country-farm-raised mother a sense of pride. Nellie’s sons’ accomplishments offered gratification as well.
Final Years: It is terribly sad how dementia can take hold. For those who are familiar, you understand.
Per Nellie’s repeated requests- there will not be a funeral service.
Raise a glass and make a toast to one of the feistiest and determined women of our area. May God Bless
