Apostle Arnell Smith of Loves Park, IL departed this earthly life November 9, 2024. He was born June 15, 1936 in Cotton Plant, Arkansas the son of Theodore and Queen Esther Smith. Apostle Smith, lived in Rockford since 1970 coming from the Quad Cities. He married Jim Ella Tate November 4, 1960, of this union 8 children were born; she preceded him in death. Apostle Smith, married Deborah Kitt, May 14, 2007. He was employed as a Iron Worker by Union Local 498 over 20 years before retiring. Apostle Smith was the founding pastor of Deliverance Crusaders Church serving over 45 years; where he served as Shepherd. Apostle Smith, served as a Police Chaplain and in many areas in the community.  He was a member of the Ministers Fellowship. Apostle Smith, attended schools in Cotton Plant, Arkansas; later to receive his G.E.D.

Arnell leaves to cherish many loving memories, his wife, Deborah Smith; son Darius (Alanda) Smith; six daughters, Sonja (Ricky Sr.)  Love, Traci ( Robert) Madison, Ritchla (Robert) King, Melba (Anthony) Harris, Joycelyn Walker, and Natolyn (Benjamin) Jeffries ; his bonus children, Delicia (Carter) Evans, Evelyn (Devon) Chambers,  Shannon Chatman, Vanessa Smith and Glenda Burgess; 21 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; three brothers, Theopolis Smith, Elihue "Smitty" (Coleen) Smith and Vanquilla Smith Sr; sisters Janet Epps, Gloria Lee, Yvette Williams, Arlean (Donnie) Williams and Maggie Green; daughter in law, Mildred Hightower-Smith; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his, parents; grandparents, Wesley and Lula Jackson; son, Arnold "Paul" Smith Sr; and daughter, Jan Smith; grandson, Darius II; sisters, Ruth Thomas, Elfletta Smith, Loreatha  Reid, Lula Randle and Ora McQueen; and brothers, John Wesley Smith,  Thurlough Smith and Ernest Smith.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 16, 2024 at Pilgrim Baptist Church 1703 S. Central Ave. Burial in Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.