Arlene McSwain Oldham

It is with heavy heart and great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, daughter, and wife, Dr. Arlene McSwain Oldham, who left this world October, 14th, 2026 at the age of 54. She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family after an extended battle with Triple Negative Breast Cancer.

Though our hearts are broken by her passing, we find comfort in the love she gave, the memories we shared, and the lasting impact she made on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She had a heart full of compassion, a spirit that touched those around her, and a way of making the people she loved feel special. Her family was her greatest treasure, and the love she poured into them will remain a guiding light for years to come.

Arlene was born in Albany, GA and grew up in Perry, GA alongside her three siblings; Myra, Robert, and Art. She graduated from Westfield High School in Perry, GA and went on to attend Georgia Tech and graduate from the School of Dentistry at the Medical College of Georgia. Next, she completed the general practice residency at MUSC and fell in love with Charleston. She opened Belle Hall Dentistry in 2002 and was proud owner until 2026.

Arlene was actively involved in providing dental care in nursing homes, schools, and military environments. She was also involved in the Stephen ministry where she provided Christ-centered care to individuals experiencing life difficulties. Arlene most loved being with her family and going to the beach - especially for sunrises and sunsets. She was an enthusiastic and involved baseball and football mom and loved travelling and shopping with her daughter.

She brightened every room she stepped into and made friends everywhere she went. She is survived by her husband John, her daughter Maggie, her son Jack, her three goldendoodles Roscoe, Daisy, and Beau, and her mother Vondene McSwain. She is preceded in death by her father, Artis McSwain.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Kalinsky and the team at Lowcountry Oncology Associates and Roper Hospital who provided tremendous care and compassion during this difficult time. We also would like to extend gratitude to everyone who has supported our family in so many ways.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Isle of Palms Exchange Club at 1:30pm on Sunday, October 25th, followed by a reception from 2:30-4:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to The Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com/. 

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Mount Pleasant, 1520 Rifle Range Rd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464.