Essie Mae Blakely Arnold, a beacon of love, strength, and unwavering faith, passed into the loving arms of our Savior on September 15, 2024. Born on December 18, 1928, in Midway, Florida, to James and Mariah Blakely, Essie’s 95-year journey was a testament to the power of faith, family, and finding joy in life’s simple blessings.
As a child, Essie faced adversity with the resilience that would define her life. Under her grandmother Conelia’s care, she learned early lessons of faith and perseverance, which she carried always. These values became the foundation upon which she built her family and lived her purpose.
Essie graduated from Midway High School in the final class of 1947. Her athletic skills found its expression on the basketball court at Florida A&M University, where she played for a year. This experience exemplified the determination and team spirit that characterized her approach to life. In 1947, Essie married her soulmate, Freddie Lee Arnold, beginning a love story rooted in shared faith and devotion. They moved to San Diego in 1952, where they raised five children. Essie’s favorite treat of cornbread with buttermilk, a simple pleasure that brought her immense joy, reminded her of the farm where she grew up.
Essie’s relationship with God was the cornerstone of her existence. Her faith wasn’t just a Sunday affair; it permeated every aspect of her life. At Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, she was a pillar of strength and devotion. Whether serving in the Women’s Auxiliary, lifting her voice in the choir, diving deep into Bible study, she lived out her love for Jesus Christ daily. Her children fondly remember how she wove scripture into everyday moments, ensuring that the teachings of Christ were as much a part of their home as her warm embrace.
A woman of many talents, Essie balanced her roles as a devoted mother, dedicated professional, and faithful servant of God. She worked 18 years at General Dynamics and 15 years at North Island Naval Station, all while creating a haven of love and prayer at home. Her infectious laugh, healing hugs, and the way she made everyone feel like family were reflections of the love of Christ she carried in her heart.
Essie is reunited in heaven with her beloved Freddie, daughters; Deborah and Sharon, grandson Wendell, and siblings; Herc, Prince, Bernice, Conelia, Claretha, and James.
Her legacy of faith and love lives on through her sister Rachel, children; Sandra, Freddie, and Sevon, 12 grandchildren, numerous great- grandchildren, and countless lives she touched with her kindness and spiritual guidance.
As we celebrate Essie’s remarkable life on October 9th at 11a.m. at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church (3045 Greely Avenue, San Diego, CA), we’re reminded that while she may no longer be with us in body, her spirit – strong, loving, and full of unshakeable faith in Jesus Christ – will forever be our guiding light, just as she always pointed us towards the light of God.
