Imogene Vannett Arnold

Imogene Vannett Arnold was born on March 16,1927 in Kensett, AR to Ike and Luvenia Arnold. She was the last of eleven children. Albert, Vernelia, Marietta, Basil, Aubrey, Wilce, Massalee, R.L., Ike and Thurman. At the age of 12 years old she accepted Christ as her personal savior under the leadership of Rev. Brewer. She remained faithful to Centennial Missionary Baptist Church for 84 years until the time of her death. She’d often say, “I was born at Centennial, and I’ll die at Centennial.” She served as Sunday school teacher, missionary president, on the hospitality ministry, youth director and the music department. She was the organist upon the purchase of the church’s first organ. She traveled nationally and internationally with the National Baptist Convention. She began her education at Kensett Elementary through the 8th grade. There after attended Arkansas Baptist High School and College where she received her associate degree in education. Later to receive her bachelor’s degree at Bishop College in Marshall, Texas. While attending Arkansas Baptist College, she was a member of the Buffalo Girls Basketball Team. She began her professional career in 1952 at Kensett (Eastside) upon integration she taught at Kensett Elementary School as a 3rd and 4th grade Math teacher. Later to retire after 35 years of teaching. She continued to educate and touch many lives through the years. Her love for the community soared through many decades. She was a faithful member of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary and the White County Retired Teachers Association as well as the Kensett Housing Authority, where she served as a board member. She received a host of accolades, rewards, and acknowledgements. She attended the presidential inauguration in 1993 of President William Jefferson Clifton. She was a die-hard Razorback Fan in the 1900’s. Lastly, she leaves to cherish a host of nieces and nephews along with the extended families of the Whitney’s, Crow’s, Allen’s and Goodlow’s. Not to mention her boys who she loved dearly and took care of her diligently on Sundays; Keith, Charles, Terry, Smitty and Earl too. Arrangements entrusted to Powell Funeral Home of Searcy.

Imogene Vannett Arnold

March 16, 1927 - May 17, 2024