Robert E. Arnold

Robert E. Arnold
Robert Edward Arnold, Jr. "Rob, Robbie" of Westport, CT passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 19, 2022, at the age of 50 with his beloved wife, Sherlyn Celone-Arnold by his side. Rob was a 20-year brain cancer survivor, who fought this disease with grit and grace. He was a compassionate educator, hero, friend, loving partner, and now an angel where he joins his father Robert Edward Arnold, Sr., his father-in-law Nicholas George Celone, his maternal grandparents Fredrick and Ellen Kelly, his paternal grandparents Reginald and Teresa Arnold, his uncle Ronald "Bud" Kelly, and many other family members and friends who are welcoming him with open arms at Heaven's Gate.
As a resident of Westport, CT, Rob loved going out to local eateries where he enjoyed good food, great company, and a perfect Manhattan. He was also an avid golfer, liked spending quiet time at home with Sherlyn and their pugs, and loved doing yard work. As a lifelong athlete, Rob was always at the top of his game since his years at North Haven High School, where he was captain of both the hockey and golf teams, and was number one in the state for golf when he graduated. Just two months after his second brain surgery, on March 17, 2015, Rob began running to take back control of his life. He was determined to beat brain cancer with everything he had! Between 2015 and 2020, despite having four brain surgeries and being on non-stop chemotherapy, Rob ran in the Chicago Marathon four times for the American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) to raise funds for research and patient education. Rob was committed to running for those who could no longer run for themselves. He was most proud of his personal record that he attained during the TCS New York City Marathon in 2019. Rob also ran in several half marathons with family and friends. Some of his favorites include the Napa Sonoma Half, the Brooklyn and NYC half marathons, and local races in Fairfield, Cheshire, and Milford, CT. Rob's healthcare team at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center believed that Rob's endurance training combined with his "mind over matter" approach to life carried him through his epic journey of living with brain cancer. Rob became a hero and inspiration to many people around the world through running and his unfettered determination. Additionally, over the years, Sherlyn and Rob forged meaningful friendships with people in their Oligo patient and support groups on Facebook. Rob made friendships at every stage of his life. People were drawn to his humor, wit, charm, and lovable personality. He made an impact on everyone he met and cherished his friends and family. Rob lived with such unassuming strength and courage even before his diagnosis. He was always up for a good laugh, an intellectual debate, or quiet time at home.
He found great joy in being an academic scholar and lifelong student. Rob earned his Bachelor's degree from Quinnipiac University, his Master's and 6th year in School Psychology (with honors) from Fairfield University, and was ABD in his Doctorate in Education (EdD) degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Rob loved being an adjunct professor at Sacred Heart and Fairfield Universities where he mentored the next generation of educators working in the field of school psychology and special education.
Rob began his professional career with the City of Bridgeport's Board of Education as a School Psychologist. He was quickly promoted to the Director of Psychology, and then assumed responsibility as the Executive Director of Specialized Instruction. His stalwart leadership and passion for his work was evident in the countless hours he spent ensuring the children of Bridgeport received the services they were entitled to. He was a compassionate leader who took great pride in building Bridgeport's Office of Specialized Instruction and was honored to work with a dynamic team.
Rob is survived by his loving wife of 18 years, Sherlyn (and their "fur kids" Bhodi and Luna) of Westport, his mother Patricia Kelly Arnold of North Haven, his sister Darci (Geoff) LaBash of Fairfield, and his niece Audrey and nephew Blake, his mother-in-law Sherrie Celone of Cheshire, his brother-in-law Nicholas Celone (Shannon Helm), and his niece Maye Rose, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, lifelong friends, and colleagues that loved and supported him throughout his life.
Rob is missed beyond words. A celebration of life will be planned in June 2022. In remembrance of Rob's life, please take the time to read to a child, go outside for a walk or run, and take time to cherish the moments with your friends and loved ones.