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Memorial Keepers (1)

Hiers-Baxley Funeral & Cremation Life Event Center - Buffalo Ridge

Francis "Frank" Arnold

January 10th, 1939 - May 17th, 2024

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Francis (Frank) Arnold, 85, of The Villages, FL passed away peacefully on May 17, 2024, after a long life well-lived and well-traveled. Frank was born at Emerson Hospital, in Concord, MA on January 10, 1939. He was the son of the late Charles Patrick Arnold and Elsie Elie Arnold. He was predeceased by his only sister, Norma Smith of Detroit, MI. He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan, his sons, Jonathan Arnold (Jeri) of Millstadt, IL, Jeffrey Arnold (Anne) of St. Peters, MO, step-sons, Christopher Wilson of Tampa, FL and Dr. Jeffrey Wilson (Ellen) of Tampa, FL. Frank was the caring grandfather to Riley, Henry, Maggie, Brady, Evan, Tanner, Emma, Abby, and Olivia. Frank graduated from Concord High School in 1957, where he was Class President his Junior and Senior years as well as a 12-Letter varsity athlete. He continued his education at UConn (BS), Auburn University (MPA), and Doctorate program at Nova Southeastern University (FL) (DPA). Frank was a commissioned USAF Officer who completed a meritorious 25-year career, retiring in 1987 as a Colonel. His achievements include 111 missions into the Vietnam combat zone. After USAF retirement, he was employed in industry as a Systems Analyst. In 1988, he began a distinguished 20+ year academic career at Saint Leo University (St. Leo, FL) from which he retired in 2014 with the prestigious title of Professor Emeritus. Frank was an adventure enthusiast who cherished many travels with Susan, having visited 80+ countries worldwide. Frank and Susan were never shy of an adventure. Private graveside gatherings will be held at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL later. Sentiments are encouraged to be placed on the Afterall website through Hiers-Baxley. 

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Hiers-Baxley Funeral & Cremation Life Event Center - Buffalo Ridge

Hiers-Baxley Funeral & Cremation Life Event Center - Buffalo Ridge

Rooted in a legacy of trust and compassion since 1885, Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services has been a beacon of support for Marion County. In our quest to honor life’s profound journeys, we present the Buffalo Ridge Life Event Center—a sanctuary nestled within “Florida’s friendliest hometown,” designed to celebrate and memorialize the unique stories of loved ones. This center, a labor of love years in the making, extends our renowned funeral and burial services by offering a space where memories can be cherished and legacies honored. Our Life Event Center is more than a venue; it's a canvas for your most treasured celebrations. From the finery of our event planning, catering, and floral artistry to the sophistication of our themed displays and cutting-edge audio-visual systems, we've tailored an environment that anticipates every detail....

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(352) 561-8048

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