John Russell Arnold, 84, of Dennis, MS passed away on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, after a sudden illness.
Russell is survived by his wife, Patricia (Pat) Arnold and daughter, Leesa Nava (Carlos) of Tupelo ; stepdaughter, Samantha Cahng, of Easley, SC; stepson, Dr. Samuel .T. Norris, Jr., (Christine ) of St. Simon’s Island, GA ; grandchildren Sam Norris III, Elizabeth Norris, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, the late John Dewey and Clara Cox Arnold, brother, Barris Arnold and sisters, Dorothy Graham, Jessie Bullock, Martha Wallis and Marlene Young.
Early in life Russell was an electrical foreman for a construction company and later a supply manager for a metal alloy manufacturer. Russell willingly implemented his learning to mend, repair or overhaul anything Pat or Leesa asked. He was a humble man, devoted to his family and his friends.
Russell’s was a fan of NASCAR racing, spent many hours in the garden and had his own Hummingbird feed formula. He enjoyed the outdoors. He loved the water and participated in many bass tournaments. After retirement he made his home on the Tenn-Tom Waterway delighting in the scenic views and wildlife. Recently his favorite pastime was relaxing in chair on the water with Silly, his favorite canine girl — a picture of a man and his dog,
Services will be held Friday, June 12, 2026, at the Waters Funeral Home in Baldwyn,, MS. Visitation begins at 12PM followed by the service at 1PM with Bro. Bobby Jerrell and Bro. William E. Tiffin, III, officiating.
Russell was a longtime member of Red Bud Baptist Church. Memorials may be sent to Red Bud Baptist Church , 52 County Road 864, Dennis, MS 38838.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watersfuneralservice.com.
