William "Bill" Arnold's Obituary
William “Bill” Arnold, 69, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, in Leesville, Louisiana. Born on May 27, 1956, in Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri, Bill lived a life defined by devotion to his family, his craft, and his faith.
Bill proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy for four years, completing specialized training to work on submarines. This experience instilled in him a sense of discipline and precision that carried into his professional life. As an Electronics Technician for Valiant Integrated Services, Bill’s technical expertise and meticulous attention to detail were the hallmarks of a career that spanned decades.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill was a man of many talents. A gifted musician, he found profound joy in playing the bass guitar, particularly during worship services at church. His quiet strength and rhythmic talent provided the foundation for countless moments of spiritual connection within the congregation. For Bill, music was more than a skill—it was his passion.
Bill’s adventurous spirit extended to the open road, where he found clarity and freedom as an avid motorcycle enthusiast. Whether riding through winding roads or simply enjoying the journey, he embraced life with a sense of wonder and courage that inspired those around him.
Above all else, Bill cherished his family. He was a devoted husband to Marsha Arnold and took immense pride in being a father to James (and his wife Sarah) Arnold; Chaz (and his wife Brittani) Hagan; and Tara Hagan. His role as a grandfather brought him unparalleled joy as he lovingly supported Shannon Risinger, Anneliese Arnold, Jadyn Slaney, Waylon Pollock, Keygan Hagan, Noah Pollock, and Harleigh Hagan.
Bill is also survived by his brother Ron (and his wife Joy); bonus siblings Cody (and his wife Rachel) Burns and James (and his wife Lawanda) Cole; father- and mother-in-law Jerry and Adrian Smart; brothers-in-law Darrell (and his wife Angie) Woofter, Bradley Smart, and Eric Fryer; and numerous extended family members who will forever hold him in their hearts.
He was predeceased by his parents Milford H. Arnold and Anneliese Auguste Peters Arnold; his brother Milford H. Arnold Jr. (and his wife Sandra); his sister Sandra Arnold Fryer; and Susan Brando, his first wife.
Bill’s legacy is one of love, music, faith, and adventure. He will be remembered for his gentle kindness, unwavering devotion to those he held dear, and the courage to follow his passions wherever they led. His presence was a steadying force in the lives of many—a man who lived with purpose and shared joy through every note he played and every mile he traveled.
A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at Christian Living Fellowship on Monday, March 16, 2026 at 6:00 P.M. to honor the memory of this remarkable man who touched so many lives. A visitation will be held on Monday, 16th from 5:00 P.M. until time of service at the church. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and inspire others to live with the same passion and grace that defined him.
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