Gladys L. (Goodwin) Arends, a cherished matriarch, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on March 28, 1938, in Orangeburg, S.C., Gladys dedicated her life to family, community service, and her faith.

As the owner and operator of the upholstery business, The End Result, she crafted beautiful pieces that adorned many homes, reflecting her creativity and attention to detail. Her passion for service extended beyond her business, as she devoted over five years to the Orangeburg County Disability and Special Needs Board of Trustees and an impressive 19 years to the Regional Medical Center Hospital Board of Trustees. Gladys embodied commitment, ensuring that the needs of her community were met with compassion and diligence.

A faithful member of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Cordova, she was active in the Fidelis Sunday School Class, where she not only worshipped but also forged lasting bonds with fellow parishioners. Her vibrant spirit and unwavering faith were a testament to her character and influenced many lives around her.

Gladys is fondly remembered for her deep love for her family. She leaves behind her beloved daughters, Janet Arends Robinson (James) of Cordova and Janice Arends Motes (Dave) of Catawba, N.C. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Gerrit Motes (Katie), Erin Forehand (Ben), Jason Robinson, and Gloria Webster, along with six great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her brother, Henry Goodwin (Kathy), her sister, Francis Fogle, a special niece, Dottie Purcell, and an additional number of nieces and nephews, all who carry a piece of her spirit within them.

Gladys was preceded in death by her parents, Louis O. Goodwin and Louise Fergeson Goodwin; her beloved husband, Gerrit Arends; her brothers, Oscar Goodwin and Gene Goodwin (Roberta); her sister, Dorothy Rast (Konia); and her brother-in-law, Bobby Fogle. Each of these family members held a special place in her heart, and they are now reunited in eternal peace.

The warmth and kindness she shared will forever echo in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. The family expresses profound gratitude to Rev. Brian and Michelle Self, Mrs. Ann Bookhart, and the staff of Grove Park Hospice, especially Tammy and Shannon, and the staff of the Legacy of Orangeburg for their unwavering love, compassion, and care during this difficult time.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Cordova from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM.  Rev. Brian Self will be officiating.  

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Jason Robinson, Andy Arends, Al Goodwin, Tommy Bookhart, Erin Forehand and Chuck Fogle.

Honorary pallbearers will be the members of the Fidelis Sunday School Class.

 As we remember Gladys L. Arends, let us celebrate a life well-lived, a soul nurtured by love, and a heart that has touched so many.