Vernon Arnold, 81

March 5, 1945 — March 14, 2026

The Lord called Vernon Arnold home on the morning of March 14, 2026, from his home in Saltillo, Mississippi, following a short battle with pulmonary fibrosis—one he faced with strength, courage, and the kind of humor that defined his life.

During his illness, Vernon often said, “If this disease takes me, I’ll go home to the Lord. If it doesn’t, I’ll go home to my cabin in the woods.” As it turns out, the Lord had already prepared a place for him.

Vernon had just celebrated his 81st birthday on March 5th surrounded by more than 50 friends and family members. During that celebration, he spoke openly about being ready for Heaven whenever the time came. True to his nature, even in life’s most serious moments, Vernon faced them with faith, peace, and just a little bit of humor.

Vernon was born March 5, 1945, in Tupelo, Mississippi, where he spent his childhood and formative years. At just 17 years old, he enlisted in the United States Army. Not long after joining, he was deployed to Vietnam, where he bravely served two tours of duty. Vernon carried deep pride in his military service throughout his life. At his home, he even created a memorial garden honoring members of every branch of the United States military—a tribute that reflected his respect and gratitude for those who served.

Following his time in the Army, Vernon worked as an independent drywall contractor and later spent more than 20 years working at Cooper Tire. Through his work and daily life, he became known as someone who never met a stranger and never missed an opportunity to make someone laugh.

Vernon was a faithful member of Eggville Free Will Baptist Church in Eggville, Mississippi. His faith guided every aspect of his life, and he was known as a devoted Christian, husband, and father.

One of Vernon’s greatest joys was music. He had a beautiful singing voice and loved sharing it with others. He frequently sang in church and regularly visited local nursing homes where he entertained residents with classic country songs and Elvis Presley tunes—complete with a few signature dance moves. It’s safe to say he was a favorite among the ladies in those audiences. To know Vernon was to love him. He had a way of lighting up every room he entered. Whether he was telling jokes, singing a song, or showing off his dance moves in the middle of a grocery store aisle, Vernon lived life with joy and enthusiasm. He loved attention, loved people, and loved making others smile.

His family finds comfort in knowing that while he may no longer be here with us, he is likely already singing, joking, and keeping Heaven entertained—probably with an Elvis song or two.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jean Arnold; children, Sheila Hudson (Matt) of Fulton, Lee Wallace of Mantachie, Chevela Underwood of Mooreville, and Annika Turner (Allen) of Pontotoc; grandchildren, TJ Senter (Lexi) of Fulton, Victoria Walden (Patrick) of Mooreville, Hunter Underwood of Fulton, Haley Underwood of Southaven, and Isla Turner of Pontotoc; great-grandchildren, Ledger Senter, Cooper Walden, and Liza Senter; and sister, Gale Oswalt (James) of Shannon.

Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Vernon Arnold Sr. and Iva Byrd Arnold; five sisters; and one brother.

Vernon leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, laughter, and music—along with countless stories that will be told for generations.

Visitation will be 1 p.m. until service time Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at Eggville Free Will Baptist Church.

Services honoring the life of Mr. Arnold will be 3 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at Eggville Free will Baptist Church with Bro. Gerald Gann and Bro. Michael Hutton officiating. A graveside service will follow at Beech Springs Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Allen Turner, Allen Turner, Sr., Hunter Underwood, TJ Senter, Patrick Walden, and Kendal Creekmore.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be made at www.PeguesFuneralHome.com.

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

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Visitation