Arlen Lee Bias

Arlen Lee (AL) Bias

August 18, 1945 – April 15, 2025

Arlen Lee (AL) Bias, 79, of Orange Park, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Tucson, Arizona, on August 18, 1945, to Charles Bias and Beulah Kay Bias Tillman, AL grew up in Florida and graduated from Bradford High School in Starke. He went on to attend St. John's River Junior College before answering the call to serve his country. AL proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, where, while stationed in Grand Forks, North Dakota, he met the love of his life, Bette Nash.

After completing his military service, AL returned to Gainesville, Florida. He pursued his dream of becoming a pharmacist by attending the University of Florida, all while working at the VA Hospital as a lab technician. In 1974, he graduated with High Honors, and in 1975, he helped open the first Eckerd drug store in Orange Park. This began a lifelong career in community pharmacy, where he served as both a trusted pharmacist and Area Manager with Eckerd and later CVS. AL was deeply committed to helping others through his work and built lasting relationships with colleagues and customers alike.

Above all, AL was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He cherished time spent with his family, whether it was cheering on his children at school events, enjoying summers in St. Augustine Beach, or simply being present at home. He took immense pride in his 54-year marriage to Bette, watching his children graduate from his beloved University of Florida, and spending treasured moments with his three granddaughters.

AL will be remembered for his strong work ethic, unwavering honesty, quiet strength, and deep love for his family. He touched many lives and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Bette; his children, Robert (Lisa) Bias of Orlando, FL, and Heather (Russel) Tees of Jacksonville Beach, FL; three beloved granddaughters, Chloe Bias, Avery Tees, and Ivy Tees; his brothers, Charles (Sonny) Bias and Kevin Tillman; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218. Please arrive at least 15–30 minutes prior to the start of the service and gather in Lane #3.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society in AL's honor.