Mrs. Raymell Arnold-Smith

Raymell Arnold-Smith, a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and friend to all transitioned peacefully from this life on December 17, 2015 at the age of 85. Raymell, was born March 6, 1930 in Luray, Tennessee to the late John W. and Mattie Elizabeth (Barham) Arnold. She was married on August 26, 1963 to Sherman Smith. They shared 52 loving years together. Raymell was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mattie Arnold of Jackson; son, Clarence V. Brown of Jackson; sister, Lucille Hickman of Minnesota; sister, Shirley Norris of Jackson; sister, Mary Arnold of Jackson; brother, O’Neal Barham of Jackson.

Raymell joined Faith Temple under the leadership of Elder Non Walker in 1960 where she served as a Sunday School Teacher, an avid member of the Women’s Guild, and she helped initiate The First Annual Tea at the YMCA of Jackson, MI. Mother Raymell Smith was a pillar in her church.

Raymell retired from the Jackson County Medical Care Facility after twenty-five years of service. After her retirement, Raymell continued serving others as a private care aide for fifteen years.

Raymell was a very kind and giving woman of God who loved the Lord and her family. She will be remembered always. She leaves to cherish her memory, her husband of fifty-two years, Sherman; three daughters, Loral Banks (Embra), Sheila VanDyke (William), and Patricia Brown-Ashworth; two brothers, Charles E. Arnold (Olymphty), William Arnold; two sisters Dorothy Smith, Robbie Griffin; five grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren and eleven great-great grandchildren as well as a host of family members.

A Home Going Service will be held at Faith Temple Word of Faith Ministries (1020 N. Blackstone Street, Jackson, MI 49201) on Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at 12 Noon with Apostle John Samuel Walker officiating. Family Hour from 11 to 12 Noon at the church. Interment Woodland Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Raymell’s memory may be made to the Arthritis Foundation.