Arlene "Lenee" Dowthard-James, of Rockford departed this earthly life August 26, 2024. She was born September 26, 1956 in Rockford the daughter of Leo and Bernice Dowthard. Arlene married Keith James, July 26, 1987. She was employed 24 years as a material handler by Warner Lambert before retiring. Arlene was a former member of New Zion Missionary Baptist Church. She attended Auburn High School.

Arlene leaves to cherish many loving memories, her husband, Keith; two daughters, Monica Dowthard and Krystal James; two stepson, Eric (Heather) Cushenberry and Keith James Jr; two grandchildren, Nastasshia Hardy and Dahsani Martin; five great grandchildren; brother, Leonard Dowthard; a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her parents; four sisters, Lois Brown, Betty Sanders, Darlene Robinson, and Joyce Ann Marks; and one brother, Leo Dowthard Jr.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.