James "Jim" Arnold

James "Jim" Frederick Arnold, passed away peacefully on January 5th, 2024, in Salem, at the age of 85. He was born on May 4th, 1938, in Richmond, Virginia, to Frederick and Violet Arnold. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph Wilson Arnold. Jim is survived by his loving wife, Mary Coleman Arnold; children David Arnold (Natalie) and Frances Arnold Wymbs (Brian); brother John Howard Arnold (Margaret); grandchildren Mary Lucy Wymbs and Patrick Hudson Wymbs; and his niece, Susan "Sue" Arnold.

Jim’s career began with coursework in forestry at the New York State College of Forestry at Syracuse University in 1963. He went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in Forestry and Wildlife from Virginia Tech in 1968.

Jim dedicated 33 years to a rewarding career with Koppers Industries, where he worked diligently in several positions related to forest products until his retirement in 2003.

Outside of his professional life, Jim was an active member of his community and church, and he had several hobbies and talents that he shared generously. He selflessly volunteered with the Lion's Club and was honored with the prestigious Lion of the Year award in 2005 and the Melvin Jones Fellow in 2009. Jim also found joy in singing with the church choir at St. Paul's Episcopal Church and playing the violin, including playing music for veterans at the Virginia Veterans Care Center. He also enjoyed going for walks and being in nature, and instilled a love of the outdoors in his children and grandchildren. He loved to cook and enjoyed cooking with and preparing food for others, especially his family.

Jim will be remembered for his unwavering faith and his devotion to his family and friends. He was a man of integrity, kindness, and humility, and he was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. His warm smile and gentle nature made everyone feel welcome and loved. Jim was forever thinking of others and always left a place better than he found it. Jim's legacy of love and kindness will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Salem, on Thursday, January 11th, 2024 at 3pm. In the quiet moments of reflection, may we remember Jim's remarkable life and the impact he had on so many.

"My life flows on, I can’t stop my heart from singing." – Jim (adaptation of Robert Lowry’s “My Life Flows On”)
Online condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com