Thomas Joseph Arnold

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Thomas Joseph Arnold, who passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on December 10, 1967, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Tom graduated from Garinger High School in Charlotte, North Carolina, before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force. During his military service, he completed Orthopedic Operating Room Technician training and served as an Orthopedic OR Tech, a role that reflected his caring nature and dedication to helping others.

It was during his time in the Air Force that Tom met the love of his life, Karen Marie Arnold. Their military friendship blossomed into a beautiful love story and a marriage that lasted 38 years. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, friendship, and unwavering devotion to one another.

Following his military service, Tom became a disabled veteran and devoted himself wholeheartedly to his family. While he faced many challenges throughout his life, he met them with resilience, determination, and a deep love for those around him.

Known affectionately as “Lovey” and “Poppy or Poppy Peach,” Tom’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather. His grandchildren, Caleb Thomas Carroll and Layla Grace Carroll, were the light of his life. He was their biggest supporter, cheering them on in every activity, celebrating every accomplishment, and never missing an opportunity to tell them how proud he was.

Tom had a special gift for making people feel heard. He loved gathering with family at the end of the day to hear about school, work, sports, and life’s challenges. Whether anyone asked for it or not, he always had advice to share, encouragement to give, and a perspective that came from a lifetime of caring for others. Family conversations around Tom often ended with laughter, wisdom, and a reminder that someone was always in your corner.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Tom was a passionate Carolina Panthers fan and enjoyed following NASCAR. He was also an avid golfer and spent many years sharing his love of the game as a high school golf coach. Beyond sports, he treasured time spent with family and friends and never passed up an opportunity to make memories with the people he loved.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Karen Marie Arnold; his daughter, Kristin Danielle Carroll (Bryan); his son, Thomas Joseph Arnold III; his cherished grandchildren, Layla Grace Carroll and Caleb Thomas Carroll; his parents, Thomas Joseph Arnold Sr. and Eileen Ann Arnold; his brother, Rob Arnold (Michelle); his sisters, Melanie Smith (Mark), Megan Childress (Barry) and Karrie Love (Rob); and many extended family members, lifelong friends, and loved ones who will miss him dearly.

Tom’s legacy is one of service, loyalty, love, and family. He lived a life dedicated to caring for others, first through his military service and later through his unwavering commitment to his family and friends. While his absence leaves a void that can never be filled, the lessons he taught, the stories he shared, and the love he gave will live on through all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

“A grandfather, a coach, a veteran, a husband, a father, a friend — but most of all, a man who loved his family with his whole heart.”

A memorial service will be held at Beach Funeral Home, 1689 S. Patrick Drive, Indian Harbour Beach Florida on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 2:00 pm.