Jerry Eugene Arnold was born July 21, 1939, in Webb, Oklahoma and passed from this life February 5, 2011 at 71 years of age at Woodward, Oklahoma. Jerry's father, Eugene Victor (Vic) Arnold, and mother, Laura Faye Brooks Arnold, made their home in the community of Webb. He was the second of five children, and attended Cedar Hill School in his early years. The family moved to Camargo, where Jerry graduated from Camargo High School in 1957.
Jerry was married to his High School sweetheart Willa Dean (Tootsie) Allen on April 6, 1958. Three children were born to this union, Allen Eugene, Dena Lea, and Eric Ross. The couple first made their home in Camargo, and lived in Mooreland, Fairview and Chickasha before returning to Camargo for the remainder of their lives.
Jerry was a gifted athlete and excelled in baseball and basketball throughout his school years, and continued playing several years more in town league competition. Jerry's passion for sports continued as an avid fan and coach of his children as they participated in team sports. Jerry enjoyed training dogs and quail hunting, and enjoyed the outdoors. In his later years he continued to enjoy family and sports, particularly OU Football. Jerry was intelligent and witty, and enjoyed crossword puzzles and the coffee group that met at his home each day before sunrise to discuss sports, world affairs and problem solving.
After first working jobs as a lineman, for the City of Mooreland and roughneck for Parker Drilling Company, Jerry made his occupation as a successful small business owner providing oilfield lease operating services for 30 years prior to his retirement. He also ranched and farmed several parcels of land that he acquired in the vicinity of Camargo. He served on the Camargo School Board for many years.
Jerry was a faithful friend, a helper of many in need, and will be missed by his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Faye and Vic, his wife, Tootsie and brother-in-law, Odie Merrifield. He is survived by his children, Allen and wife Dixie Arnold of Spring, TX; Dena and husband Terry Smith of Camargo; and Eric Arnold; siblings, Kay Merrifield of Eastland, TX; Dale Arnold and wife Barbara of Woodward, OK; Marsha Harrison and husband J.D. of Optima, OK; Russell Arnold and wife Cindy of Vici, OK; seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren; Natalie Johnson and husband Matthew and their children Kaita and Reilly of Boerne, TX; Jeri Gayle Bagley of Camargo, OK; Jordan Arnold and wife Natalie of Robert Lee, TX; Erin Tanner and husband Jordan of Denver, CO; Loney Gamble and husband Ocean and son, John of Camargo, OK; Kelca Bagley and Maggie Smith, both of Camargo, OK; Good friend, Gracie Thomsen; a host of nieces, nephews and friends.