Arlene Shanaberger

Arlene Shanaberger, a loving wife, devoted mother, proud grandmother, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 16, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on July 3, 1953, Arlene lived a life full of spirit, love, and unwavering faith.

She is survived by her loving husband, Michael Shanaberger; her daughter, Lori Dabbondanza, and son-in-law, David Harman; stepson, Philip Shanaberger; granddaughter, Victoria Little; her mother, Anna Riggins; two sisters; and one brother. She was preceded in death by her two beloved sons, R. Scott Dabbondanza and Daniel Dabbondanza, as well as her father, Robert Riggins; mother-in-law, Betty Malatt; and one sister, Virginia Spitler. 

Arlene’s journey of faith began in 1991, when she experienced a life-changing spiritual transformation. From that moment, she made it her mission to share the saving message of Jesus Christ with anyone she could. Arlene was not one for soft words. She spoke with unrelenting passion and conviction, never afraid to stand firm for her beliefs. Whether on social media or in person, she was unapologetically bold, often earning a timeout in the “Facebook Jail” club due to her outspoken nature.

In early 2024, Arlene was given just two months to live. Yet, true to her resilient spirit, she defied the odds and lived long enough to spend one final Thanksgiving and Christmas with her family. Throughout her illness, she remained a steadfast example of strength, refusing to let her circumstances define her.

One of her daughter’s most cherished memories is a piece of wisdom Arlene shared with her during a childhood schoolyard conflict: “Did you stay on top?” This simple, yet powerful advice became Lori’s life motto, and it serves as a reminder of Arlene’s determination and unyielding will to overcome life’s challenges.

Arlene’s life was marked by passion, stubbornness, and love. She wasn’t afraid to speak her mind or challenge others to grow, but her actions were always rooted in care and a desire to see others drawn closer to God. She encouraged those around her to be tough but vulnerable enough to recognize that we all need Jesus.

As family and friends reflect on her life, they are reminded of her strength, her deep faith, and her love for her family. Arlene’s legacy will live on through loved ones she left behind and the countless lives she touched with her unwavering faith and bold spirit.

Join the family in gathering to honor the fierce, faithful woman Arlene was from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday evening January, 23, 2025 at Bast-Stauffer Funeral Home, 7606 Old National Pike in Boonsboro.

A celebration of Arlene’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, January 24th at the funeral home in Boonsboro. Pastor Tom Fry will officiate. Final resting place ceremonies will be held at Boonsboro Cemetery. 

Memorial donations may be made to the mission fund at Ambassador Baptist Church, 216 Carroll Pkwy., Frederick, MD 21701.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Washington County for their amazing care and support to Arlene over the past four months. 

In her words: “Whatever life throws your way, always stay on top.” And, in the words of a dear friend of her daughter that recently passed… “Jesus. Jesus. Amen!” 

Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the family at BastStaufferFuneralHome.com.