Arnell Juanita Fells, 94, of Palatka, entered the sunset of life on Monday, December 12, 2016 at Putnam Community Medical Center. She was a native and lifelong resident of Palatka. The fifth and youngest child of Isaac and Ruby (Montvalia) Purcell, Arnell was born on Saturday, July 1, 1922. She was a 1941 graduate of Central Academy High School. She was a faithful servant, Trustee, and senior member of Bethel A.M.E. Church, serving as a longtime treasurer of the Eunice Long Missionary Society. Arnell trusted God and believed in his word and steadfast prayer. She was a retired cafeteria cook providing 16 years of devoted service at Central Academy. She was affectionately known by her close family and friends as "Nell" or the "sherbet lady" by neighborhood children. The marvelous mother of five children, Arnell J. was initially united in marriage to James W. Roberts, Jr., and they were the proud parents of one wonderful son, Thomas J. She subsequently united in marriage to Horatio L. Fells and they were the proud parents of four beautiful daughters, Pamela J., Phyllis J., Kara J., and Lauren J. Arnell always enjoyed caring for her family, spending quality time with her grandchildren and cooking for her family. One of her specialties was "sweet potato pie." She also enjoyed gardening, providing special attention and care to her "roses." Her kind, humble, and gentle presence will truly be missed by all.

She was preceded in eternal rest by husband; parents; daughter, Kara J. Cohens; brothers, Isaac, Joseph, and Orian Purcell; sister, Thomasina P. Smith.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories and legacy of love: son & daughters, Thomas J. (Marva) Roberts, Pamela J. Jenkins, Phyllis J. Fells, all of Denver, CO; Lauren J. Fells, Palatka; 9 grandchildren, Carol J. (Chester) Milton, Jacksonville; Stephnye A. Roberts-Jones, Tampa; Zachary M. Cohens, Laiquy S. Davis, both of Palatka; Jerald T. Roberts, Nikki Y. Jenkins, Dwan A. Beecham, Ronald H. Jenkins, all of Denver, CO, Dr. Rene' M. Roberts, Chicago, IL; 20 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; devoted and loving aunt, Lucy Hutcherson, Atlanta, GA; devoted friends, Marion McGriff and Lois Heard, both of Palatka; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Visitation of family and friends will be 5-8 p.m., Friday, December 16 at "Flagg's Chapel of Serenity." Homegoing Celebration will be 2 p.m., Saturday, December 17, at Bethel A.M.E Church, 719 Reid Street, Palatka, Rev. James McGriff, Pastor, is the Eulogist.