Estella Speed Arnold A Radiant Light of Love "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Mark 5:16
The name Estella originates from the Spanish word estrella , meaning “star.” Rich in historical and cultural significance, it evokes images of beauty and brightness—two qualities that so perfectly describe Estella Speed Arnold. Her beauty transcended the physical, radiating from a spirit rooted in faith and a life dedicated to service—service to her family, her church, and her community. Her love for God was the source of her inner light, a light that shone brightly in all she did. Estella Speed Arnold was born in Anderson County on January 18, 1933, to the late Robert Jehue Speed and Geneva Gilliard. She was one of five siblings—Walter Speed, Samuel Speed, Hosea Speed, Sr. and Tecora Giles—all of whom preceded her in death. It was in Anderson that Estella’s spark was first lit, inspired by her grandmother’s example of compassion and care: visiting the sick, tidying homes, and preparing meals for mothers in need. These early lessons shaped her lifelong commitment to helping others. Educated in the Anderson County public school system, Estella later moved to New York, where she pursued her passion for uplifting women. She earned her cosmetology license from The Apex School of Beauty and Culture and went on to style hair both professionally and from her home. It was also in New York that she met and married the love of her life, the late Reverend Jesse Arnold, Jr., on May 20, 1956. Estella’s radiance continued to grow as she became the First Lady of Crossroad Baptist Church in Brooklyn, NY, founded by Rev. Jesse Arnold, Jr. She nurtured a powerful prayer ministry and led with quiet strength and grace. Following her grandmother’s example, she faithfully visited the sick—whether in hospitals or in their homes—bringing comfort and hope. With the birth of her daughter Desiree, Estella embraced the role of mother—a role she later expanded to include cherished friendship. The arrival of her son Robert completed the family, at least until grandchildren brought new light into her life. After her son’s birth, Estella began a long and successful career as a Supervisor at Bell Telephone Company (now Verizon) in Brooklyn, New York, where she worked for over 25 years. After twenty-eight years of ministry at Crossroad Baptist Church, Estella and Jesse returned to her hometown of Anderson, South Carolina, where they purchased a home and became devoted members of the Mount Zion Baptist Church in Belton, South Carolina. Estella served in many roles within the church community, including the Missionary Ministry, Sunday School, the Deaconess Ministry, and the Mass Choir. She also continued her ministry of prayer and was affectionately known as “Mother Arnold.” Additionally, she taught Bible study on various occasions, always eager to share and reflect on the Word of God. In all that she did, it was her heartfelt desire to strengthen the faith of others. Estella cherished time with her family, finding deep joy in their presence and holding a special place in her heart for the Gilliard reunions. Whenever she was surrounded by loved ones, her light seemed to shine even brighter—her warmth, laughter, and radiant spirit illuminating every space she entered. Even in her later years, she began to reap from the seeds of care that had been sown, especially from her son Robert who cared for her daily. At the age of 92 Estella Speed Arnold entered eternal rest on Wednesday. May 21, 2025, at the Callie and John Rainey Hospice House, Anderson, SC following a brief illness. She leaves to carry her radiant light: one daughter, Desiree L. Jones (Nathan) of Linden, NJ; one son, Robert I. Arnold (Dana) of Anderson, SC; six grandsons: Nathaniel (Amber) Jones, Jason (Marquia) Jones, Nicholas (Leah) Jones, Jonathan (LaChina) Jones, Robert I. Arnold, Jr., Ryan D. Arnold; one granddaughter, Danae K. Arnold; five great-grandchildren: Arayah Arnold, Ashton Arnold, Kristan Arnold, Mason Jones and Jaxon Jones; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and a beloved community of faith.
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