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Charlene could light up any room she entered and was known for her ability to elicit laughter and joy from those around her.

Charlene "Chari" Mary Arnold, 43, of Easley, South Carolina, loving wife of Derek H. Arnold, passed away on Sunday, July 19, 2026.

Born on September 13, 1982, in Hancock, Michigan, she was a daughter of Robert H. Acton and the late Joan Bulkeley Acton. Chari’s life was filled with compassion and service, a true reflection of her character and values. From her earliest days, Chari embodied the role of caregiver, both at home and in her professional life. Her natural empathy and attentiveness led her to work as a Hospice CNA, a role in which she brought comfort and dignity to many during their most vulnerable times. Family was always at the center of Chari’s life. Her marriage to Derek was a partnership built on love and mutual respect. Together, they nurtured a family where care and laughter flourished. She especially treasured time spent with her nieces and nephews, showering them with affection and support. Chari’s nurturing spirit was evident not only in her family life but also in her everyday interests and joys. She enjoyed taking care of her home and found true satisfaction in housework. She was an excellent cook, often bringing her family together around the table to share meals and stories. Music filled her home, as she loved to listen to and sing songs, her voice often joining in laughter that filled each room. A spirited fan of the USC Gamecocks, she brought the same excitement and team loyalty to every game she watched. Her vibrant personality made her the life of every gathering. Charlene could light up any room she entered and was known for her ability to elicit laughter and joy from those around her. Friends and family will remember her as a loving mother, sister, daughter, aunt, and friend, a bright soul whose first priority was always the well-being of those she cared for. Chari was of the Catholic faith.

In addition to her husband of 15 years and father, Chari is survived by four children, Dane Simmons (Hailey), Dylan Simmons (Katelyn Sanchez), Brynn Simmons, and Drayton Arnold; two brothers, Matthew Acton (Van), and Daniel Acton (Andrea); two sisters, Olivia Turner (Jason), and Julie Agbaje (Sizwe); and numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family members.

In addition to her mother, she is preceded in death by a sister, Taylor Acton.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM, on Thursday, July 23, 2026 in the Chapel of Robinson Funeral Home - Powdersville Road. Burial will follow in Robinson Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM, on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Robinson Funeral Home - Powdersville Road.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Prisma Health Hospice of the Foothills - Greenville, 440 Roper Mountain Road, Suite C, Greenville, South Carolina 29615.

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory - Powdersville Road, Easley, South Carolina.