June 11, 1940 – July 12, 2025
James Robert Arnold Sr., lovingly known as “Jim,” passed away on July 12, 2025, at the age of 85 in Webster, Texas. Born on June 11, 1940, in Newport, Texas, Jim lived a full and meaningful life, deeply rooted in his beloved home state.
Known as “Jim Bob” through his high school years, Jim grew up and attended school in Newport and Bellevue before moving with his family to Wichita Falls, where he graduated from high school in 1958. While attending Midwestern University in Wichita Falls, he found joy in preaching at local Methodist churches, sharing his faith with warmth and conviction.
Answering his country’s call, Jim served three years on active duty in the U.S. Army in Germany, earning the Soldier’s Medal for courage among other honors. Upon returning to Texas, he married his sweetheart, Joyce Ann Frie, on July 2, 1964, after years of heartfelt letters exchanged during his service. The couple settled in Corpus Christi, where Jim pursued his education, worked in the oil and gas industry, discovered a passion for golf and fishing, and welcomed two sons.
Later, the family made their home in Pearland, Texas, where Jim ultimately concluded his career with dedicated service to the U.S. Government until his retirement.
Jim was preceded in death by his father, Jesse Connally “J.C.” Arnold, his mother, Christine
“Chris” Stark Arnold, his brother, Jesse Charles Arnold, and his son, James Robert “Robby”
Arnold Jr.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Joyce Ann Frie Arnold, and his son, David Marion Arnold, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who carry forward his legacy.
Jim was a proud and active member of the “Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America” for the past 42 years. His active Lodge is the Houston 151 Elks Lodge. He served as “Texas Elks Association President” for the year of 1999 – 2000. He also served under the Grand Lodge of the BPOE and on the “Texas Elks Children’s Services Board” making a lasting impact on the community. His commitment to the Elks programs for children with disabilities and veterans was unwavering, reflecting his generous spirit.
A graveside service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Newport Cemetery in Newport, Texas. The family will receive friends at Bellevue Baptist Church in Bellevue, Texas following the graveside service. Family and friends are welcome to attend and honor his memory.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to” Texas Elks Children’s Services” in Gonzales, Texas. If you wish to make a donation, please call 830-875-2425 or email: txelks@gvec.net
Jim’s laughter, courage, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. 🙏
6 thoughts on “James “Jim” Robert Arnold”
Missing you very much, love your wife, Joyce
you will be sadly missed loved your friend ship
Knowing Jim for many many years I can attest to his good heart and love for his fellow man. Jim and Joyce helped me get through the very emotional hurt I had when my Dad passed. Jim and Joyce were constant thru both of my parents passing, without them I don’t think I could have moved on. My Dad and Jim were both members of The Elks and Jim was without a doubt my Dads best friend. For several years Jim would call just to check on me and my family just to say hi and see how we were doing. I will miss those calls!
I have many fond memories of fun and serious
times spent with Jim, my cousin. I wasn’t ready
to bid him goodbye but am confident I will see
him again. He will be greatly missed.
Having Jim as a cousin was fun. He had a great sense of humor and loved people. So glad I got to see him, Joyce, and David last year. He will be missed.
My deepest sympathy to Joyce and David as they travel through these toughest of times. My prayers for the Peace of Jesus to be with them,to comfort and strengthen them. Friends for many years.