Arlene Sayre

Arlene Sayre, 87, of Burlington, died Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.

Born February 8, 1938, in Wooster, OH, she was the daughter of Kyle and Lillian Ora Zeppernick Sayre but was raised by her grandparents. 

Arlene had a wide array of talents. In her lifetime, she worked as a bartender, transported inmates for correctional facilities, helped bring Hobby Lobby to Burlington and was a Private Investigator. Most people would remember her from her business, where she made memory bears or baked goods that she would sell at the farmers market. 

She belonged to Bridges Community. Arlene enjoyed sewing, crocheting and was always baking. 

Survivors include her granddaughter whom she raised,  Kira Marie Riley Sayre and her friend Mackenzie; her children included daughter, Rita Hartley of Princeville, IL; brother, Tom Sayre; and a host of friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter, Tammie Sherrill, son, Scott Conrad and great-great granddaughter, Adalayne Faith Joy Sayre.

Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.

Services will be held at a later date.

A memorial has been established for her final expenses. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.