Harry Duane Arnold Sr.

Harry Duane Arnold Sr., 88, of West Union, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, September 14, 2025, with his loving family by his side. A devoted husband, proud father, cherished grandfather, and faithful servant to his country, Harry’s life was a beautiful legacy of service, love, and strength.

He was born on September 3, 1937, in Henry, Illinois, son of the late Harry Fay and Helen Mable Rose Arnold. Harry graduated from Henry-Senachwine High School and shortly thereafter answered the call to serve his country. He spent over 21 years in the United States Army, serving during the Cuban Missile Crisis and holding a number of vital roles with steadfast pride and discipline. He was a true patriot, and his time in uniform remained one of his proudest accomplishments.

After retiring from the military, Harry continued his strong work ethic in civilian life. He worked as a used car salesman at Max Groso Chrysler, Plymouth, Dodge, where his honesty and charm won over customers and coworkers alike. Later, he owned and operated Arnold’s Exxon, where he became a familiar and trusted face in the community.

Harry was a member of Blandville United Methodist Church and a man of quiet faith. His hands were rarely idle — he was always tinkering with vehicles, riding his Harley, golfing with friends, hunting and fishing. He also loved settling in to watch a good old western — stories of grit, honor, and heroism that reflected the very spirit he lived by. One of his proudest personal achievements was building the family home from the ground up — a place filled with love, laughter, and memories that will endure for generations.

At the heart of Harry’s life was his deep love for his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Christina Ruggiero Arnold, whom he married on June 2, 1973. Their 52 years together were marked by enduring love, mutual respect, and countless moments of joy.

He is survived by his children: Pam Amerson of Lizella, GA; Carla Ann Farrell (Wendall “Todd”) of McComb, MS; and Harry Duane Arnold Jr. (Amy) of Belmont. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Craig Duane Arnold (Cheri), Krystina Marie Vincent (Shane), Kelsey Burr (Chace), Joseph Duane Arnold (Brianna), Zoe Miller (Carson), Eriana Arnold (Danny), and Elivia Arnold; and his great-grandchildren: Robert Arnold, Jacob Arnold, Emma Vincent, Aubrey Burr, Hudson Burr, David Arnold, Alli Miller, Joseph Simmons, James Simmons and Aisley Simmons.

Harry is also survived by his siblings: Marilyn Lee of Pekin, IL; Ken Arnold (Edel) of Wurzburg, Germany; Susan Johnson (Jim) of Daytona, FL; and Patty Doherty of Jupiter, FL, as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his beloved grandson, Robert “Benji” Amerson; his sister, Pam Arnold; and his son-in-law, Billy Amerson.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Harry’s life on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Davis Funeral Home – West Union, 212 Front Street, West Union, WV. Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM until the Celebration of Life Service at 6:30 PM, with Rev. Bill Davis officiating. Full Military Honors will be accorded by the United States Army at 3:00 PM. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Shania McCullough for her extraordinary care and compassion during our time of need. A heartfelt thank you also to our wonderful neighbors, Doris and Jim Mellott, for their kindness and constant support. We are especially grateful to WVU Home Health and Hospice for the loving care, guidance, and comfort they provided throughout Harry’s final days. Your presence made all the difference.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, PO Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.DavisFuneralHomeWestUnionWV.com. Davis Funeral Home – West Union is honored to serve the Arnold family.

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