Sandra Renee Arnold

Sandra Renee Arnold was born on September 17, 1961, in Bradenton, FL, to the late Willie James Arnold and Mattie Claude Cosby Arnold. However, she also celebrated her birthday on October 17th. She was baptized at an early age at Gethsemane Baptist Church. Affectionately called "San" by her family and close friends, San was educated in Manatee County Public Schools and proudly graduated from Southeast High School in 1979. Following graduation, she earned a scholarship and matriculated at Manatee Community College.
San was well-known in her community, especially during her time at the Bradenton Housing Authority. She closely worked with families, advocating for tenants and applicants while building lasting relationships, thanks to her genuine personality and caring nature. She was employed at the Sea Port of Manatee (formerly known as Port Manatee) for 33 years, serving as the Administrative Coordinator. Nicknamed "Sandi" at work, she positively affected the lives of everyone she met while handling various responsibilities, including accounts receivable, serving as an HR liaison, on and offboarding staff, and overseeing insurance responsibilities. "Sandi" was truly loved and respected by her colleagues. Her work family was especially dear to her.
San was a devoted Christian, a woman of unwavering faith, and a gifted singer. She joined the Pentecostal Church of God, where she passionately served as the Minister of Music for the Young Adults Choir for many years. Her talents also shone through as a co-host for Pop Wilson's Gospel radio show on WRSQ and as a member of the gospel quartet, The Vocal Aires of Sarasota. You could often hear San's uplifting voice on the radio, sharing and singing the praises of the Lord. Later, she became a faithful member of Champions Life International Church, warmly welcoming new partners and dedicating over twenty years to worship and service. She was a part of the culinary ministry and on Sunday mornings, joyfully lifted her voice in praise as a cherished member of the praise and Worship Team and Choir.
As a single mother, she courageously raised and reared her children with the steadfast support of her strong, close-knit family. Though it was not always easy, she made it look effortless. San loved her family profoundly, relished in the frequent gatherings, Sunday dinners, and organic get-togethers which often happened just because. She became the
rock of the family, a beacon of peace and calm. With her kind words of wisdom, sage advice, and comforting scriptures, she always offered loving guidance and new perspectives, no matter what the issue was. San had a unique ability to center her family and friends with love and patience, providing just what they needed to face another day. Innately selfless, she embodied limitless love and peace for her family.
San was preceded in death by her loving parents, Willie James and Mattie Arnold, sister Brenda Arnold Williams, and brothers Ulysses Perry and Harry Arnold.
She leaves a legacy filled with love to the joys and loves of her life, her children: Lennon Newsome Jr. (Jocina) and Alauni Rene Arnold. She is also survived by sisters, Willine Arnold (Steforn) and Carol Jean Brown (Charlie) of Warner Robins, GA, and Yvette Washington of Bradenton, FL. Brothers, Wayne Cosby-Arnold, of Palmetto, FL; Eugene Arnold of Unadilla, GA; and Wilbert Engram-Arnold of Perry, GA. Grandchildren: Lennon III (New New), Cayden and Justice Newsome. Sister-in-law, Christine Arnold of Detroit, Michigan; cousin/brother Tommie Cosby of Bradenton, FL; Very special nieces: Brea "Miss Tucka" Styles (Jonathan) and Stebie Gibson, and special nephew Barney "Tater" Thomas.
A special, enduring friend and confidante, Keith Brown of Warner Robins, GA. Best and lifelong friends known as the Three Amigos or "Golden Girls", Sharon Hamilton and Laurri Cosby. She also cherished her special friends: Delores Crockett, Thomasina Brown, and Teri Mays-Hill.
She also leaves a host of sorrowful nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.
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