of Ocean Springs, MS
May 4, 1940 - October 23, 2024
Richard Arnold, age 84, of Ocean Springs, MS passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his sons and caregivers on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. Born on May 4, 1940 in Hope, Arkansas, he was the oldest child of Richard Byron Arnold and Myrtle Lorene Greene Arnold.
On April 16, 1966 he married the love of his life, Mary Frances Harrison. They embarked on a journey of 48 years of marriage. Theirs was a partnership with a strong bond built on love and faith. Their moves and travels eventually brought them to Little Rock, Arkansas where they resided until her death. They were long time members of Asbury United Methodist Church and the New Directions Sunday School class. After his wife's death, he moved to Ocean Springs, Mississippi to be his son and daughter-in-law's next door neighbor.
Richard is survived by his sons, Jon Richard and Elizabeth Arnold of Ocean Springs, Mississippi and James Anthony and Maeghan Arnold of Little Rock, Arkansas and two granddaughters, Mary Elizabeth Arnold and Meredith Parker. In addition to his immediate family he is survived by two sisters, Ann Carol Arnold and Eugene Morris of Dallas, Texas and Nan Faith Arnold and Linda Wiland also of Dallas, Texas.
He leaves behind a legacy that includes more friends than can be listed here. He never met a stranger and was the kind of person you knew you could call asking for a favor, and he would come running with work gloves on. He was a teller of stories (most of them funny). He was quick to assign you a nickname. He was a devoted husband and father. He was a faithful friend to many, and a follower of Jesus Christ. May he rest in
eternal peace.
The family would like to recognize and thank special caregivers during his final years: Roxana Fox, Nicki Pascley, Debra Williams, Alayna Theodore and Shakira McCants.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial to Asbury United Methodist Church, Ocean Springs United Methodist Church or the American Parkinson Disease Association.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00pm Monday, October 28, 2024 at Asbury United Methodist Church with the Revs. Susan Ledbetter and Tom Weir officiating.
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11 Condolence(s)
Mark A Wolters
Monday, November 4, 2024
This is a post-script to a prior message.
A donation to the American Parkinsons Disease Association has been given in Dick's name.
Mark A Wolters
Monday, November 4, 2024
I am very sorry to hear of your loss. In the mid-1980s, your dad was a sales rep for Shell, reporting to me as his district manager. I assumed that position in 1985, replacing a gentleman that had been the manager for many years. As you might imagine, a new guy, particularly a "Yankee" from Minnesota might be viewed with some skepticism. Your dad made me feel welcome immediately and was of immense help in getting me acclimated to my new role. I will never forget his sense of humor, nor a number of very quotable quips that I still use today. The last time I saw him, he was dealing with Parkinson's disease, and I could tell he was very frustrated anytime it interfered with his ability to speak. But I could tell he fought through it with grace and dignity. He will be sorely missed.
Nita Buckner
Wednesday, October 30, 2024
What a wonderful man he was. I was fortunate enough to get to know him through my aunt. We had many conversations and laughs. He was a kind, patient man and brought joy to many so sorry for your loss.
Jimmy Carver
Tuesday, October 29, 2024
Sorry for your loss. From a friend who grew up in DeAnn and New his parents and relatives for many years. Prayers for you in this time of loss.
David Sprague
Tuesday, October 29, 2024
I only knew Dick for a brief time, through his sister Nan. He was kind and gentle. Whenever I see some Nips I will think of him always. May he rest in peace.
Shane Atkins
Sunday, October 27, 2024
So sorry to hear of you fathers passing. Have many great memories of all your family over the years especially the twenty plus years Mom worked with Mrs. Fran. Jon, Anthony and your families are in our prayers. May God comfort and wrap his arms around you through this difficult time.
Shari Ford Pieroni
Sunday, October 27, 2024
Mr. Dick was my favorite chemical salesman in Lake Village!! He would always come around and was the first to say, "lets cook fish for the farmers". He was so proud of his children and the love of his life Mrs. Fran. He had the most infectious laugh and always had that hand on his hip, like what are you waiting on. A true friend to my family.
Carlton Fisher
Saturday, October 26, 2024
Mr. Dick was a great friend. He would come by our location and always cheered everyone up. He always told how much he loved his wife. I know he’s glad to be home with her. He will be missed.
Shakira McCants
Friday, October 25, 2024
Mr. Arnold was always so so amazing to me ! There was never a day that going to work became an issue. He truly made me love every single thing about my job. Not to mention he was always kind. Thank you Mr.Arnold for making my job a breeze. I love you and you will be missed !
Eugene Morris
Friday, October 25, 2024
You have been my brother-in-law for over 42 years. You will be missed. Jon and Elizabeth, James and Maeghan my heart is breaking with yours. As we say in the Jewish faith, may his memory always be a blessing. Ann and I love you all.
Gene
Ken Hendrickson
Friday, October 25, 2024
Loved Richard’s infectious friendliness and willingness to help and serve. His example would serve us all.