Arnetta Marie Thomas was born November 13, 1950, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Samuel and Beatrice Washington. She was the third of seven children. Her parents, brothers Ronald, Donald, and Michael, sisters Tiffany and Angela, and her beloved fur baby Mickey all preceded her in death.

Arnetta accepted Christ early in life and later joined Mt. Beulah M.B. Church, where she was a faithful member for over 34 years under the leadership of Rev. Dr. E.G. Shields Sr.

Educated in St. Louis Public Schools, she graduated from Vashon High School and continued her studies at Forest Park Community College.

She met the love of her life, James, and they married on November 29, 1973. God blessed them with two daughters, Tawanna and Shouna.

Arnetta worked 33 years at Barnes (BJC) as Central Line Supply Supervisor and spent 12 years at Ventures Department Store. In retirement, she joyfully cared for children in the Mt. Beulah Christian Academy nursery for over 10 years, earning the nickname “Ar’Nanny.”

Arnetta lived life with joy and boldness. She was a black belt in karate, a member of Meshu Karate, rode motorcycles, and belonged to the United Kings Motorcycle Club. She adored her family, especially her granddaughter Ariyanna. She and James were inseparable— where one was, the other was close by.

At Mt. Beulah, Arnetta served faithfully as a choir member, usher, Deaconess, and member of the Grill to Glory Ministry. She loved her church family and served with dedication even when her health made it difficult.

Known for her stylish hair, flawless matching outfits, and signature long, colorful nails, Arnetta always made an impression. She was strong, determined, and full of grace—showing up and serving even after hospital stays.

On November 14, 2025, at 3:26 p.m. at DePaul Hospital, God called Arnetta home, saying, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

Arnetta leaves to cherish her memory: her devoted husband Deacon James Thomas; daughters Tawanna Reese and Shouna Reese; granddaughter Ariyanna (Pooh) Wilkes; brother Carl Smith (Lauren); nephew she raised Charles Whiteside; goddaughter Chelcey Barnes Shields; bonus daughter Katrina Bozeman; god-grandsons Kyle, Vaden, and Dakoda; best friends Sandra Taylor and Connie Blueitt; and a host of family, church family, and friends.