With heartfelt love and deep sorrow, we announce that Arnelle McKinney Grant, the devoted oldest daughter of the late Arnold H. and Suzie Richardson-McKinney, beloved wife of Deacon Joseph Grant, and a nurturing mother, sister, aunt, sister-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, faithful friend, and servant of God, was called home to eternal rest on July 8, 2025.

Arnelle was born on September 21, 1936 in Charleston, SC.

Arnelle's life was a beautiful tapestry of faith, family, and love. A proud graduate of Immaculate Conception School (ICS), Arnelle carried with her the values of faith, education, and service instilled by her family. Her journey with the love of her life began in 1956, when her late aunt, Constance Brown, played matchmaker by arranging for Joseph to escort Arnelle to her high school prom. That evening marked the beginning of a courtship that blossomed into a lifetime of love and partnership.

On September 20, 1958, Arnelle married Joseph Grant, the man who would be her steadfast companion for 66 wonderful years. Soon after their marriage, they relocated to New York, where they began building a life centered on love, faith, and family. Together, they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and an unshakable devotion to God.

Arnelle furthered her education in New York, earning her nursing certification. She dedicated over 30 years of her life to caring for others as a compassionate nurse at Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. Her patients, colleagues, and community respected her not only for her skill but for the kindness, patience, and warmth she brought to every life she touched.

Arnelle was a loving and devoted mother to her three children: LaTanya, Marc, and Michele. Her role as a mother was her greatest joy, and she poured her heart into raising her children with love, wisdom, stern and firm structure, and faith. Arnelle was also a proud and doting grandmother to four grandchildren and a joyful great-grandmother to three great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense pride and happiness. Arnelle cherished every moment spent with her family, whether offering guidance and firm structure, sharing stories from her rich life, or simply surrounding them with her robust laughter and quick comebacks, all done in unconditional love. As a sister, aunt, and friend, she extended the same care and nurturing spirit to her extended family and loved ones, touching lives with her generosity and unwavering devotion.

Arnelle's life was based on her faith in God. She was an active and devoted member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, where she served faithfully for many years. Her love for God was reflected in her commitment to her church community and her dedication to serving others. Arnelle was a proud and active member of the St. Patrick's Women's Guild as well as the Knights of Peter Claver & Ladies Auxiliary, Our Lady of Guadalupe Court 110. Through these ministries, Arnelle found great joy in giving of herself, whether through acts of service, fellowship, or prayer.

Arnelle was also a loving and supportive wife to Deacon Joseph Grant, faithfully standing by his side throughout his years of ministry service. She was an active presence and a constant source of encouragement to him during his time at Berean Baptist Church in Brooklyn, New York, as well as at Salem Missionary Baptist Church in Charleston, South Carolina. Her steadfast support and devotion to her husband's calling were a testament to her deep faith and commitment to God's work.

Her servant's heart extended far beyond the church walls. Arnelle was known for her kindness, generosity, and love of helping others. Whether preparing a home-cooked meal, offering a listening ear, or quietly lending a helping hand, she lived out her faith in every action, embodying the true meaning of Christian service.

Arnelle's life was a shining example of faith, love, and service. She lived with grace and dignity, touching countless lives with her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to God. Though she will be deeply missed, her family and loved ones rejoice in knowing she has heard the words of her Savior:  "Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord." – Matthew 25:23.

Arnelle was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, LaTanya Grant (2008); her parents, Arnold H. and Suzie Richardson-McKinney; and her brother, Reverend Dr. Michael H. McKinney (Beverly).

She leaves to cherish her beautiful memory:  her devoted husband of 66 years, Joseph Grant; her loving children, Marc Grant and Michele Miller (Bryant); her dear sister, Carla McKinney-Griffith; her cherished grandchildren, Joseph Shavers, Bria A. Miller, Malika Draper (Ivan), and Danielle Brown; her three great-grandchildren, Bryant Draper, Bryndal Draper, and Brycin Brown; her sisters and brothers-in-law, Mary Ann Grant, Choici Sorrell, Mary Washington (James), Hattie Thomas, Virginia Jackson, Bernice Henderson (James), Al Drayton (Debbie), Eddie Drayton, Marion Drayton, Jr.(Albertha) and Timothy Drayton along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Her family finds comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her loved ones in eternal peace, surrounded by the glory of God.

"Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her." – Proverbs 31:28