Arlene Ann (Cobey) DeGilormo's Obituary
Arlene Ann (Cobey) DeGilormo, 70, went to be with the Lord on May 1, 2026. She passed in the loving care of the St. Joesph’s MICU department, alongside family.
Born in Fairfax, VA, Arlene relocated to the CNY area by her father’s orders to Griffiss AFB. She attended North Syracuse High School and started her career in Cosmetology, known for her charisma and skills, she traveled the country selling product and educating on skill and technique. Arlene then moved on to manage a few local salons. During this time, you could always find her on the dance floor or at a live show; she was a true diva.
She then met her husband, Charles (Chuck), they married on November 19, 1983, in Syracuse, NY. Shortly after they had their daughters, Lauren and Tiffany, and her stepsons, Chuck and Nicolas.
Arlene and Chuck opened DeGilormo Construction Company in 1983, they grew their small construction company, focusing on affordable and accessible housing. Their generosity was giving back to a community; their work was often found in non-profit organizations and on the local sector.
Arlene then moved on to the Small Business Administration-Disaster Relief Division, after volunteering for Hurricane Katrina. It was at this point that she truly thrived within her knowledge and expertise.
Arlene spent 35 years as a parishioner of St. Rose of Lima Church, North Syracuse. There, her and her husband served as a Lector and/or Eucharistic Minister. She was devoted to her faith and always supported all aspects of it.
She kept herself busy. Whether it was the PTO board, Chapter President of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), a member of National Active and Retired Federal Employee (NARFE) and was passionate about her attendance in a local Breast Cancer support group, as a survivor. Arlene was known for her brains, meticulous admin skills and her ability to capture a room.
Arlene took pride in her flower beds and loved to visit gardens and zoos. She had a green thumb beyond luck. She loved reading the newspaper and her coffee. Let’s not forget the cigarettes! Arlene was a fabulous cook. Her love for food was very apparent, despite her petite size. There is always a meal on the table, and two more in the freezer. She was always prepared. You could always expect an open door and a seat at the table. Arlene never forgot to celebrate a holiday or to send a card. She was the best at always remembering your favorite things. Her laugh was distinct, and don’t ever find yourself at the other end of her wrath. She sure was a force to be reckoned with.
Arlene is survived by her daughters, Lauren (Patrick) Bertrand, and Tiffany DeGilormo; her stepsons, Chuck (Rachelle) DeGilormo and Nick (Audra) DeGilormo, and, her chosen sisters: Janet (Kires) Immatteo and Diane (Kires) Colton.
She was predeceased by her husband, Charles DeGilormo; her parents, John and Ida Cobey.
Calling hours will be hosted on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, 5 – 9 pm at Coppertop Event House, 3372 Milton Ave, Syracuse 13219.
A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Rose of Lima Church, North Syracuse, on Thursday, August 13, 2026 at 10am. Burial will follow in North Syracuse Cemetery.
A Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held on Sunday, August 23, 2026 at 1pm at Green Lakes State Park, Old Administrative Building.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Rose of Lima Church Food Pantry.
What’s your fondest memory of Arlene?
What’s a lesson you learned from Arlene?
Share a story where Arlene's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Arlene you’ll never forget.
How did Arlene make you smile?
