Kernola Sims Arnold

A cherished loved one to family and friends and a devoted church musician for over 80 years, transitioned peacefully on Sunday night, August 6 th , 2023, at the The Gardens at Cuyahoga Falls in Assisted Living Facility. She was 94 years old. Born March 30, 1929, in Massillon, OH to O'Bryant and Ruth Sims, Kernola lived in several cities within the United States, including St. Augustine, Florida as a very young girl, Mansfield, OH and Altadena, California. Everywhere she lived always included her involvement in church and charitable work activities, especially playing beautiful renditions on the piano or organ, of Christian and classical music. Kernola loved to entertain. She set elegant dining tables and often hosted wonderful gatherings in her beautiful homes. Kernola lived in Altadena, California for over 50 years. She was a member of Lake Avenue Congregational Church in Pasadena, CA. She played and worked at several churches in the Altadena/Pasadena area as a church musician. She was a member of the Negro Musicians Association in Los Angeles, California and frequently accompanied vocalists for weddings and funerals. In addition to her musical talents and gracious hospitality, Kernola will be remembered for her compassion, generosity and charmingly sharp wit. She would pray with you and for you. She loved the Lord. She had a great sense of humor and a talent for expressing sobering remarks at opportune times. Occasionally, her home served as a safe haven for those in need and a home away from home for those traveling from a far. Besides her parents, Kernola was preceded in death by: her daughter, Audree Livingston; Sisters, Sallie Mae Sims-Staples and Audrey Snowden; Nephews, Herbert Snowden, Jr and great-nephew Tracey Stewart. She is survived by: grandson, Jonathan Reed, of North Canton, OH, granddaughter, Heaven Livingston, of East Canton, OH; great- granddaughters, Dajia Reed, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Kierra Reed, active duty in US Air Force; nieces Cheryl Martin (Joseph) of Massillon and Renee Reynolds of Canton; special great-nephew Damon Staples of Massillon, OH and special great-niece Clarice McGuire (Monte) of Columbus, OH; and a host of other relatives and friends.