Arlene Frances Hamel Zielinski

Arlene Frances Hamel Zielinski, 96, passed away on June 7, 2026, in Tallahassee, Florida. She was born in Haverhill, Massachusetts on October 5, 1929, to parents Herbert C. Hamel and Hazel Foisey Hamel. After graduating from Haverhill High School, she attended the prestigious Catherine Gibbs Secretarial School in Boston where she graduated with the much-in-demand skills of an executive secretary. After working with CPAs, attorneys, the State of Florida, WCTV in Tallahassee, and GE Aerospace, she settled in South Florida and joined the Bomb and Arson Unit in the Broward County Sheriff's Department. Arlene was proud to work in the unit and even prouder of her colleagues, whom she loved dearly and cherished long after she retired. Arlene loved South Florida for its sunny weather, beaches, unlimited seafood and year-round activities. She met her boat captain husband, Ted Zielinski, there and spent many years enjoying boating and traveling together with their little schnauzer, Pepper. Having an artistic eye and talent for art, she took up photography as a hobby which she enjoyed with a passion for many years. As an accomplished pianist, music was another passion of hers, which she passed on to her children and grandchildren. Arlene will be remembered by all who knew her for her determination, wit and spitfire attitude. She will be dearly missed. Arlene was predeceased by her son, Fred Charles "Chuck" Godwin. Survivors include her children Carol DiSalvo Black (Edwin), Debra King (Paul), and Donna M. Baker (Paul); grandchildren Kimberly Sanders (Reggie), Jessica Bradley (Tim), Christie King Washburn (Mark), Ashley King Cross (Will), Heather King Vasquez (Will), Michael DiSalvo (Desiree) and Drew DiSalvo as well as a host of nieces, nephews, 7 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren and other extended family members, friends and colleagues. Arlene was also predeceased by her former husband, Fred Elijah Godwin. A graveside service will be held at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Thomasville, Georgia on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 11:00am. Breanna Green of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the family with their arrangements.

Tributes

Arlene Frances Hamel Zielinski

October 5, 1929 - June 7, 2026