It is always difficult saying goodbye to someone we love and cherish. Family and friends must say goodbye to their beloved Apostle Arnell Smith of Loves Park, Illinois, born in Cotton Plant, Arkansas, who passed away at the age of 88, on November 9, 2024. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family.

He was predeceased by: his parents, Theodore Smith and Queen Esther Smith; his former spouse Jim Ella Tate; his grandparents, Wesley and Lula Jackson; his children, Arnold "Paul" Smith Sr. and Jan Smith; his grandson Darius II; and his siblings, Ruth Thomas, Elfletta Smith, Loreatha Reid, Lula Randle, Ora McQueen, John Wesley Smith, Thurlough Smith and Ernest Smith.

He is survived by: his wife Deborah Smith; his children, Darius Smith (Alanda), Sonja Love (Ricky Sr.), Traci Madison (Robert), Ritchla King (Robert), Melba Harris (Anthony), Joycelyn Walker, Natolyn Jeffries (Benjamin), Delicia Evans (Carter), Evelyn Chambers (Devon), Shannon Chatman, Vanessa Smith and Glenda Burgess; his siblings, Theopolis Smith, Elihue "Smitty" Smith (Coleen), Vanquilla Smith Sr., Janet Epps, Gloria Lee, Yvette Williams, Arlean Williams (Donnie) and Maggie Green; and his daughter-in-law Mildred Hightower-Smith. He is also survived by 21 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and friends.

Visitation was held on Saturday, November 16th 2024 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Pilgrim Baptist Church (1703 S Central Ave, Rockford, IL 61102). A funeral service was held on Saturday, November 16th 2024 at 11:00 AM at the same location.

Funeral arrangement under the care of
Carl E Ponds Funeral Home: Ponds Ernest

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Sat

Nov 16

Visitation

Pilgrim Baptist Church
1703 S Central Ave, Rockford, IL 61102

Sat

Nov 16

Funeral service

Pilgrim Baptist Church
1703 S Central Ave, Rockford, IL 61102

November 13, 2024

Pastor Kimberly Moore and your EMBC Family lit a candle

Pastor Kimberly Moore and your EMBC Family sent flowers

“In loving memory of Apostle Arnell Smith, Natolyn, We extend our condolences in the passing of your father. May your heart and soul find peace and comfort, knowing that it is well with his soul and that he is resting in the arms of the Savior. We love you.”