Obituary of Edith Marie Arnold

Edith Arnold passed away quietly at home on November 8, 2004 after a six year battle with breast cancer. She was born Edith Marie Keith on May 28, 1948 in Bremerton, WA to Palen and Eda Keith. Edith grew up in the Puget Sound area, principally in West Seattle. She graduated from West Seattle High then went on to earn her BA from Oberlin College in Ohio, and her MSW from Michigan State University. After working ten years for the Michigan Department of Social Services, she returned to Washington State and continued her public service career with the Department of Social and Health Services. She served the people of the State for over 23 years working as a Community Services Office Administrator and Regional WorkFirst Coordinator. Although she had a rewarding career in social services, Edith always wanted to be a nurse. Two years ago she started a course of study that would lead to a nursing degree. And, two months ago, she received her nurse’s pin even as she was battling cancer for the last time. It was truly one of her proudest moments when her husband “pinned” her in the presence of her instructors, fellow nursing students, and family. Edith was an accomplished musician, playing organ for several local churches, most recently the Christian Science Church in downtown Olympia. She also played Christmas songs on the organ at the Capitol Building for several years. Edith is survived by her husband, Rick Arnold; daughter, Meredith Benningfield; son, Joseph Arnold, all of Olympia; mother, Eda Keith, Seattle, WA; sister, Dolores Craig and her husband, Bob, Livermore, CA; sister Phyllis Silva-Keith, of Kirkland, WA; brother, Ben Keith, Seattle WA; and numerous nieces and nephews. Her family and friends miss her dearly. Her time in this world was much too brief, but her legacy of love, service, and courage will live on. A memorial service to celebrate Edith’s life will be held at 3pm, November 19, 2004 at United Churches 110 - 11th Ave SE in Olympia, WA. Memorials can be sent to: The Edith Arnold Memorial Nursing Scholarship, South Puget Sound Community College, Olympia, c/o Marilyn Adair, Director of Nursing.