Thomas Arnold Obituary

Arnold
Thomas Dale
Arnold
March 24, 1945
March 30, 2026

Thomas Dale Arnold, 81, passed away Monday, March 30, 2026, in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Thomas proudly served in the United States Navy, retiring after 20 years of service as a Quartermaster Chief. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Eastern New Mexico University—accomplishments he carried with quiet pride.
He lived life on his terms, moving often and finding comfort outdoors. He preferred the open road, and the quiet of nature. He loved gardening, watching wildlife, and exploring back roads, always curious about what might be just over the next hill. Wherever he lived, he planted trees and roses, leaving something lasting behind.
He was an avid reader and a lifelong fan of 70s and 80s rock music, especially enjoying the ritual of buying Meat Loaf's Bat Out of Hell album in every new format.
Thomas is survived by his wife, Betty Brown Arnold of Greenville, SC; his daughters and sons-in-law, Sara and Scott Demel of Brooklyn, NY, Beth and Scott Crabtree of Colorado Springs,CO; his four grandchildren, Mitchell Sears, Rachel Sears, Stetson Crabtree and Chardonnay Crabtree; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Pauline and Stanley Swinford, Joyce and Leroy Gray; brother, Jack Arnold; 5 nephews and 1 niece, all of Roswell, New Mexico.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ennis and Sadie Mae Arnold; brother, Lester Arnold; nephew, Tommy Gray; and niece, Valerie Arnold, all of Roswell, New Mexico.
He is remembered for his independence and the unique path he chose to follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Alzheimer's Association are suggested.