John William Arnold, Sr., born on March 13, 1943, in Center, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026, in Cleveland, Texas. He lived a life rooted in hard work, devotion to family, and a loving, caring spirit that touched everyone who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 58 years, Dorothy Miller Arnold, the love of his life; his daughter, Linda Sue Miller; his parents, Eugene Arnold and Winnie Shaw Arnold; his brothers, Henry Arnold and Thomas Arnold; and his sisters, Bessie Clifton, Billie Britt, Dessie Lampkin, Mabel Moser, and Lou Jones.

He is survived by his son, John Arnold, Jr.; his daughters, Rebecca Simpson and her husband Erik, Rhonda Langdon and her husband Jim; and his daughter-in-law, Lynn Miller. He also leaves behind numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who were blessed by his loving heart.

By trade, John was a truck driver who loved traveling the country with his wife, Dorothy, sharing countless miles and memories. He also spent many years working in construction and roofing, helping build homes and structures throughout Livingston, Texas, leaving a lasting mark on his community.

As a young man, John was drafted for the Vietnam War and reported to the federal courthouse in Houston on the same day Cassius Clay was there. In a remarkable act of love, his younger brother Thomas volunteered so that John would not have to serve alone. In the end, John was rejected for service, while Thomas served with honor.

John was well known for having three birthdays. March 11, 1943—the day his mother said he was born in a cabin in the woods outside of Center, Texas. March 13, 1943—the day the doctor officially recorded his birth. And March 13, 1942—the date he claimed at age fifteen so he could get his driver’s license early to help his mother. He never stopped driving after that.

John loved Western movies and television shows, especially sharing those moments with his sister Mabel, with whom he could quote lines at any time. He also enjoyed football and music from the 1950s, with Buddy Holly being a favorite.

He stayed active throughout his life and generously volunteered with Bear Creek VFD and Punkin-Evergreen VFD, always willing to give his time to help others.

Above all, John William Arnold, Sr. was a loving and caring man—happy, outgoing, and always ready to talk, laugh, or share a good story. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, devotion, and love that will live on through all who knew him.