Tributes

Arnella B. Chance “Nell” was born on May 18, 1940, in Martin County, North Carolina, to King Bruce Chance and Bessie Neal Chance. On August 6, 2025, she peacefully went home to be with the Lord. Her faith journey began early. At a young age, Arnella gave her life to Christ and became a devoted member of Medley Chapel CME Church in Bethel, NC. Her relationship with the Lord shaped the way she loved people, worked hard, and celebrated life with joy. Arnella’s early education began at Salisbury School in Hassell, NC. She went on to graduate from West Martin School in 1957. Education became one of the great loves of her life. She began her college education at Kittrell College in Kittrell, NC. She later transferred to Bennett College, proudly earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics in 1973 and forever cherishing her identity as a “Bennett Belle”. She continued to interact with Bennett College and was a member of Bennett College Coastal Alumni Association. Arnella also earned her Master’s Degree from North Carolina A&T State University “Aggie Pride”. She became a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Spring of 1974 Beta Nu Zeta Chapter, through which she built lifelong friendships and served her community with style and grace. Arnella became a Certified Home Economist through the American Home Economics Association. Her professional career was marked by dedication and passion. Arnella taught at Salisbury School and Bennett College, where she inspired students with her deep knowledge and personal warmth. She later joined South Carolina State College (now South Carolina State University) in Orangeburg, SC “Bulldog Nation”, where she served for many years as an Instructor of Home Institutional Management and Supervisor of the Home Management Residence. Beyond academia, Arnella also worked for Martin Community Action serving as the Head Food and Nutrition Coordinator for numerous years. Throughout all of her work, whether in the classroom, in the community, or in her career, Anella was a mentor to many. She guided with patience, encouraged with kindness, and challenged with love. Her words and examples inspired countless people to dream bigger and work harder as she continued her lifelong mission to educate, uplift, and empower others. Arnella lived life fully and joyfully. She had a special love for cooking, whether it was Sunday dinner or a simple meal, she poured her heart into every dish. She loved sewing and she enjoyed doing hair and makeup. She also enjoyed the peace of fishing, the fun of camping trips and the laughter that came from joking around with family and friends. No matter the activity, her warmth, humor, and generous spirit made everyone feel special. Above all, Arnella loved her family, cherishing every moment spent together. Her life was a beautiful blend of faith, education, service, and joy, a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Arnella was preceded in death by her parents, King Bruce Chance and Bessie Neal Chance, and her siblings, Dottie Bell, King Thomas Chance, and William Albritton. She leaves to cherish her precious memory, her brother, Deacon Melvin Chance (Reverend Ernestine Chance) of Tarboro, NC; her sister and caretaker, Marjorie Chance Hill of the home in Bethel, NC; her sister-in-law, Nada Albritton of Brooksfield, CT; her god-son, Vincent Best; her god-sisters, Carol Brothers and Angela Freeman, little ones who held a special place in her heart, Zayden Sapp and Cameron Ambrose; and close friend, Veronica Bell. Also, a special niece Richonda Hill who was also a caregiver and a host of nieces, nephews, special cousins, other relatives, and dear friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Tributes

Ms. Arnella B. Chance

May 18, 1940 - August 6, 2025