Darrell Ray Arnold

Darrell Ray Arnold, 80, of Seneca, Missouri, quietly passed into eternal rest on October 10, 2023 in Joplin, Missouri after a sudden illness. He was surrounded by his loving family. Darrell was born February 22, 1943, in Goodman, Missouri, to Alfred and Ida (Loyd) Arnold. He lived his life in the rural Goodman and Seneca areas. He graduated from Seneca High School in 1960. 

Darrell held several occupations throughout his lifetime, including milk delivery routes for Milnot, an employee for Harrod's Meat Packing Plant, and owner/operator for Arnold’s Seamless Guttering, before retiring from the Seneca School District.

Darrell married Lillie (Mills) on March 10, 1963. Together for 29 years, they raised 2 daughters, Lori LeBahn of Joplin, and Angie (Stacey) Mittag of Neosho. Darrell spent the last 30 years of his life with his significant other, Lori Wescott. Together they raised one son, Austin (Aryelle) Arnold, of Springfield. Darrell was the 11th of 16 children, 7 of which survive. He lovingly raised his 3 children, willingly spoiled 10 grandchildren, and also treasured 3 beautiful great-granddaughters.

Darrell was a born-again Christian since he was 22 years old, was a member of Hart Baptist Church and was baptized in Buffalo Creek. He always had Jesus in his heart and loved deeply. If you had the pleasure of knowing him, you would know he loved to tease. If he teased you, he liked you. He had an amazing green thumb and raised the most beautiful, weed-free gardens. He generously shared his harvest with family, friends, and strangers. He loved being outdoors and spent countless hours caring for and manicuring his 40-acre farm north of Seneca. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and loved him. We have decades of memories and sad only that we will not be able to make more with him. But we have a Greater Hope and know that we will see him again someday.

Visitation, under the direction of Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home, Seneca, will be held from 6-7 pm, Friday, October 13, 2023. No other service is scheduled, as per his wishes.