Arlene Metzner Gigon

Arlene Gigon (nee Metzner), age 100, a lifetime resident of Cranford, NJ, passed away peacefully at home on April 12, 2025. Born and raised on Orchard Street in Cranford, she was the daughter of the late Edward J. Metzner Sr. and Ethel May Fraser, and sister of the late Edward J. Metzner Jr.

Arlene married Robert W. Gigon Sr. on April 22, 1950, and they shared a loving life together until his passing in 1969. She raised their children in Cranford while remaining deeply committed to her community.

She worked for 17 years as a Systems Analyst at New Jersey Bell Telephone Company in Newark. After her husband’s passing, she began a second career with the Township of Cranford, where she proudly served for over 21 years and made history as the town’s first Registered Municipal Clerk.

Arlene was a dedicated Girl Scout Leader for a local Cranford troop, starting with Brownies and continuing through Girl Scouts. She was active in the Livingston School PTA and a longtime member of the Colony Club of Cranford, as well as other local civic organizations.

In retirement, Arlene traveled extensively with her closest and dearest friends across the United States and around the world, though Cranford always remained her true home. She loved spending time at the pool with friends, cooking and entertaining, and was an avid bridge player who participated in several groups.

She is survived by her children, Robert W. Gigon Jr. of Shark River Hills, NJ, and Nancy Fiorelli of Springfield, NJ. She was predeceased by her son-in-law, Frank Fiorelli, in 2021.

Arlene was the proud grandmother of: Jennifer Larsen and her husband Erik, and their children Chase and Quinn.  Mary Ann Radice and her husband Michael, and their daughter Hannah. Jessica Schor and her husband Jacob, and their children Ethan and Caleb. Claire Wieczerak and her husband Thomas, and their children John Henry and Lana.

She is also survived by her beloved nephew Edward Metzner and his wife Maureen Metzner and their children Nicole and Vincent Crotty and their children, Alissa, Vinnie, & Lia and Rebecca Metzner and her partner Chris Sharp and their son Camden.

Arlene loved a good time - and a good martini. She will be remembered for her strength, warmth, and unwavering love for her family, friends, and the town she called home.

Arlene’s Mass of the Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10AM Wednesday April 16, 2025 at St. Michael Catholic Church, 40 Alden St., in Cranford. Arrangements by Gray Funeral Home, Cranford. Please go to: www.grayfuneralhomes.com to offer condolences.