Arnold Stone

In Loving Memory of Arnold Stein Stone December 6, 1930 - January 25, 2025

Arnold Stein Stone, a beloved father, friend, and spirited New Yorker, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2025. A longtime resident of New York City and Block Island, Rhode Island, Arnold was known for his warm smile, generous heart, and keen business sense.

Born on December 6, 1930, to Philip Stein and Ida Gershman. Arnold grew up in the Bronx, where he developed a love of basketball, humor and entrepreneurship. He later changed his last name from Stein to Stone in the mid-1990s to honor his own personal path.

Arnold attended Taff High School before earning a basketball scholarship to the University of Dayton. A proud highlight of his college years was playing in the 1952 National Invitation Tournament at Madison Square Garden.

After graduation, Arnold brought his natural charm and savvy to New York City's food and beverage scene, owning and managing several well-loved establishments, including Harlow's, Brandy's, The English Pub, Truffles, and Busby's. His entrepreneurial spirit and larger-than-life personality made him a fixture in the industry.

In 1966, Arnold married Joan Cooper, with whom he had two daughters, Meaghan and Hillary, the greatest joys of his life.

In the 1960s, Arnold discovered the beauty of Block Island, purchasing a home that became a cherished family retreat. For over 50 years, he enjoyed sharing the island with friends and loved ones. Later in life, he even drove a cab on Block Island, giving visitors enthusiastic tours of the place he adored.

Arnold was also a Colonel in the New York State Guard and volunteered for 18 years at the Army War College Foundation in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, a role he took great pride in.

After retiring to Crystal River, Florida, Arnold eventually returned to New York to live with his daughter Meaghan, where he spent his final years enjoying the city and Sullivan County.

Arnold is survived by his daughters, Meaghan Stone of New York and Hillary Credo of Florida, and by his cousin, Robert Peck of Mamaroneck, New York and Maryellen of Scarsdale, NY.

Donations in Arnold's memory may be made to the Army War College Foundation in Carlisle, PA, or to the Block Island Conservancy.