Arnold Eugene Freeman was born in Birmingham, Alabama, May 21, 1958 to Morris Reasor and Alta Ornett Freeman Holder. He gave his heart to the Lord at an early age and continued to love Him until the day of his death. Arnold relocated to Huntsville in 2006 where he departed this life quietly in his sleep on February 26, 2013.

Arnold developed a great love and interest in music as a child and pursued his dream by mastering the art and becoming a successful multi-faceted television producer who set a new standard in the music industry. He created and groomed his television show, American Music Makers, into the highest rated program of its time slot for Atlanta, GA and 57 other marketers and became known as “Arnell Starr” to his audience. He continually obtained top ratings with American Music Makers and three other shows aired on the United Paramount Network (UPN). He was a self-made entrepreneur and was acknowledged as a child prodigy because he could play anything he heard on the piano. At the Age 14, Starr began playing with well-known artist. Later he played with Stevie Wonder, as well as worked on the Jackson Five Victory Tour. Knowing firsthand about the entertainment life and the people who love it, he continued on a series of entertainment projects, to include being a deejay at Atlanta nightclubs including the VIP, Club 131, and Mr. V’s Figure 8.

Because of his association with musical groups, Starr became interested in creating music videos. He sought training in that area through the community and public access cable television in 1986 and learned all elements of editing, directing, lighting, camera operation, and production. He decided to create his own music video show. Rap was just coming into prominence, and neither MTV nor BET had begun showing it. Starr launched American Rap Makers on public access and it caught on like wildfire. The format included hit videos, plus interviews with musical artists. To give the show a national look, Starr booked top national acts as they came through Atlanta. His guest included Ice T, Ice Cube, NWA, Digital Underground, and the list goes on.

He received many awards and accolades, to include being a recipient from former Mayors of Atlanta and a host of others. During his tenure, he was able to interview many celebrities such as Monica, Mariah Carey, and others. His creative gifts of an accomplished Producer were evidence everywhere throughout the surrounding city and geographically. Arnold rededicated his life to God and his goal was to launch a Christian music project when he relocated to Huntsville until his untimely stroke in 2007. He was blessed with a wonderful kind, sweet, loving personality which won the hearts of everyone that met him.

Arnold was preceded in death by his father (Joseph A. Holder, Sr.) and brother Roy Leon Heard. He leaves to mourn, a loving and devoted caretaker, Alta Ornett Holder, one son, Dontarius Juhan (Ruby); one sister, Mrs. Josette Holder Paschal (Bryan), two brothers, Dr. Joseph A. Holder, Jr., Pastor Rodney Holder (Berhan); two nephews, Bryan and Antonio Paschal, one Aunt Mrs. Sarah Jordan (Willie James), and a host of relatives and friends.

The fruit of your labors will live on forever. We will miss you!

Memorial service will be 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 17, 2013 at the Mosley Complex on the campus of Oakwood University (7000 Adventist Blvd; Huntsville, AL 35896) with Pastor Rodney Holder officiating.