Arnold was born in Charleston, West Virginia to the late Arnold and Violet Beard.
After high school, he served in the United States Air Force and later received a bachelor's degree from Southern Wesleyan University. He pastored over 40 years serving in Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, and South Carolina. At the end of his career, he served as an associate pastor at Pickens View Wesleyan Church for 8 years. His ministry was his life.
Beyond his pastoral duties, Arnold was deeply committed to community service. He was a passionate supporter of Country Santa, generously donating his time and spreading the joy of giving. One of his greatest joys was sharing this experience with his grandchildren, imparting upon them the values of compassion and generosity. Arnold also had a love for antique cars, maintaining them throughout his years. The family has many memories around his metropolitan cars.
Arnold is survived by his wife, Emma Jean Gilstrap Beard, daughter Rena Quist (Phil), son Brian Beard (Laura), daughter Jena Edwards (Richard); step-daughter Susan Simmons (Roy Hoyle) and step-son Samuel Simmons (Kristi). He will be lovingly remembered by his cherished grandchildren: Morgan Dorriety (Aaron), Victoria White (Jay Cox), Hunter Edwards, Addison Holcombe (Isaiah), Landon Edwards, Jennifer Crittenden (Adam), Charles Simmons,(Grace), Alexander Simmons (Ali), Cameron Simmons and Drake Kelon Brown, as well as his great-grandchildren: Nolan Dorriety, Jett Dorriety, Sailor Dorriety, Bowie Dorriety, Boston Dorriety, and Cooper Crittenden. He is also survived by a brother, Joe Beard.
Arnold was preceded in death by his parents a brother, Sheldon Beard, sister, Geraldine Louise Rucker, and step-son, Sydney Simmons.
A visitation for Arnold will be held on Sunday, April 7, 2024, from 1:30 PM to 2:45 PM at Pickens View Wesleyan Church, located at 744 Bethlehem Ridge Rd, Pickens, SC 29671. A funeral service to celebrate his life will commence at 3:00 PM, followed by a committal service at Hillcrest Memorial Park.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.dillardfunerals.com. Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
DONATIONS
The Country Santa ProgramP.O. Box 856, Pickens, South Carolina 29671
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