Cecil Edward Arnold
Cecil Edward Arnold, 1942-2015
Cecil was born and schooled in Cameron, Texas and at 17, entered the US Army where he learned the discipline, skill and confidence to go forward in the world. He became a Houston City Fireman and a commercial pilot. After retirement from HFD, he earned his Bachelor of Arts and Masters of Arts degrees from the University of Houston and became a teacher, heading the Fire Academy at College of the Mainland for ten years. Photography, skeet and target shooting, flying, wood-working, boating and writing were just a few of the hobbies he enjoyed. His hand-crafted furniture and bowl turnings are pieces of art and grace the homes of friends all over the world. Cecil was an avid reader of books and travel was one of his passions. His favorite city was Paris and his favorite meal was a paella, eaten on a Costa Del Sol beach, served with a good wine and even better friends. He had a sharp, often sarcastic wit, and loved a good laugh
Cecil will not read the new Robert Crais, John Sandford or Michael Connelly books. He won’t see the next James Bond film. He won’t know how Downton Abbey ends. He won’t be able to board a cruise ship in Copenhagen next year as he had planned, and travel with spouse and friends to Russia. He’ll not know how the next election plays out. He’ll never again fall asleep on the couch with his dogs on his lap. He was sorry for all that, as he just wasn’t finished living yet, but he bore his illness with unselfishness and courage. Those who saw him in his last weeks admired his strength and loved him the more for his grace under fire.
His parents, Cecil Graham Arnold and Loraine Arnold, preceded him in death and he will be missed by his friends, by his cousin, Hank Clore and family, by his son and daughter-in-law, Chris and Dena Arnold and by his wife, Taylor.
After cremation, a memorial celebration will be held at a date not yet determined. Inquiries may be directed to tarnold@swbell.net
Cecil died of lung cancer on August 18, 2015.
A graveside service will be held at 1pm on Saturday, September 12 in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Cameron, Texas.
Cecil made a huge difference in my life, both personally and professionally. In many ways, I would not be the person I am today had I not had the pleasure and honor of knowing him for the past twenty years. He was truly one-of-a-kind and I miss him very much.
We love you, Taylor, and are keeping you in our thoughts.
What a wonderful way to remember Cecil, Taylor. He is eternally laughing. I know that the pain will eventually ease, but the memories will never go away. We enjoyed many a vacation as well as day to day living together. I have wonderful memories of Cecil, and I know that I am only one of many, many friends.
I will miss his pranks and spirited political arguments. You couldn’t ask for a better friend. We love you Taylor.