Arletta Raye Cicotte

Arletta Raye Cicotte, our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, was born on December 1, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan. She passed away peacefully, in Des Moines, Iowa, on January 15, 2026, after a short illness.

Arletta was the definition of strength and love. She was hardworking, kind, determined, and resilient, with a generous heart and a fierce spirit. Family meant everything to her, and nothing brought her more joy than time spent with her children, grandchildren, and especially her great-grandchildren. She was a wonderful cook whose meals brought everyone together, and she was always the life of the party—full of laughter, stories. Arletta was fiercely loyal and never afraid to speak her mind; she didn’t put up with any nonsense, and those who loved her admired her for it.

She is survived by her children: William Kennedy of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Verna Christopher (John) of Des Moines, Iowa; and David Kennedy (Michele) of Redford, Michigan. She leaves behind three cherished grandchildren: Jessica Schreier (Chris) of Iowa; Anna Gerber (Colby) of Iowa; and Isabelle Brockshus (Steven), of Iowa, as well as six adored great-grandchildren. Arletta is also survived by her last living sibling, Wes Knight (Sandy) of Livonia, Michigan.

She was preceded in death by her parents, nine siblings and by the love of her life, who she married in March of 2000, Hugh Cicotte, who passed away in 2021. We find comfort knowing they are reunited once again.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 24th from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. in the Chapel at Valley View Village, 2571 Guthrie Avenue. Interment and a private family memorial will be held at a later date in Des Moines, Iowa.

Our family extends heartfelt thanks to the caring community at Valley View Village for making Mom’s final years fulfilling, joyful, and filled with love.

Donations may be made to Wounded Warriors Project in Arletta’s memory.

Mom will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered for the strength, warmth, and joy she brought into our lives.