of Little Rock, AR
January 29, 1958 - September 4, 2025
Arnold Ray Merrell was born on January 29,1958 in Searcy, Arkansas to Patsy (Glaze) and the late Vernon Ray Merrell. He passed away suddenly at the age of 67 on September 4, 2025, in Little Rock AR. Arnold grew up in Bald Knob, Arkansas where he excelled in academics and athletics. He set strength and speed records in high school that stood for two decades.
Arnold's work ethic was legendary. He began working at the age of 13 and by age 15 worked in the pipeline industry around the country, including the Trans Alaskan pipeline during school breaks. He was ecstatic when he saved his first $100 in a cigar box, and he loved telling the story of flying to Vegas at 15 with his yellow leisure suit and platform shoes on the way to a pipeline job.
Arnold saved for his college education, graduated from Harding University with an accounting degree and began his career in public accounting. He was always an entrepreneur at heart and not really loving public accounting. He landed his first security job from a friend and founded Capitol City Patrol in 1985 which provided uniformed armed and unarmed security officers and patrol services to businesses around the state of Arkansas. Arnold helped write the original concealed weapon carry training manual for the state of Arkansas in the 1990s and he trained thousands of Arkansans to be able to obtain their concealed weapon permits. Arnold sold Capitol City Patrol in 2000, which gave Arnold his next entrepreneurial opportunity. He and Lenore began investing in real estate. He started fixing up and flipping single family homes which led to rentals, owner-financing and new construction of single-family homes. During his real estate endeavors, he and Lenore also did accounting and tax services under Merrell & Company PA. He was commonly known as the ''tax guy''.
Arnold's hobbies were traveling, preferably on a beach; researching and finding a financial investment for the day, and figuring out the next family meal to make to enjoy with his kids, family and friends.
Arnold is survived by his wife Lenore (Wilson) of 25 years and their children Gwyneviere and William Merrell all of Little Rock AR; his daughter Kate (Brad) Vaughn and granddaughter Ivy Vaughn of Little Rock, AR ; mother, Patsy Merrell of Bald Knob, AR; brother Spencer (Frances) Merrell of Hot Springs AR; nephew Drew (McKenzie) Merrell and niece Hannah Merrell of Austin TX.
A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 am Thursday, September 11, 2025, at St James United Methodist Church, 321 Pleasant Valley Drive, Little Rock AR 72212. In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made to the Little Rock Compassion Center, St James United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.
Please share your condolences and memories with Arnold's family.
To order a DVD copy of this video memorial, please contact our funeral home at + 15012248300.
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43 Condolence(s)
Garry Sullivan
Thursday, September 11, 2025
Heartfelt condolences to Gywn, Lenore, and the entire Merrell family from your Pulaski Academy community. We pray for peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Shirley Hodges
Thursday, September 11, 2025
Arnold, was a guiding light with a ready smile and an acute sense of right. We were blessed to have known him. Lenore, may God be with you and yours during this time of great sadness.
Erin O’Leary Morgan
Thursday, September 11, 2025
We are so sorry for your immense loss. Gracie, Matt, and I are keeping y'all in our hearts and prayers, especially sweet Ivy. Our hearts break for y'all.
Angela Branford and Robert Maxwell
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Dearest Lenore,
We are shocked by your painful loss. Arnold was a kind human being.
You and the family are in our prayers
Tommie & Dale Waters
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Lenore, I am so very sorry for your devastating loss. I always appreciated Arnold's kind, gentle and calming manner--that made my "tax season" easier. Know your heart is breaking right now, but am praying that with time, your heart can realize it's not an end, but a beginning….as a wonderful soul has found lasting peace. May angels watch over you (& your family) and touch your spirits with gentle healing.
Roger, Donna & Abby Klutts
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Lenore, our hearts go out to you and your family. As soon as we met, I knew we would stay in touch. You and Arnold were so good to us and our Abby girl. I had peace knowing you and Arnold. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Ray Hickingbotham
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Lenore, Kim and I are so sorry to hear of Arnold's passing. I always enjoyed talking to Arnold over what else, ''Tax Guy'' stuff and usually closer to 4/15 than we both would have liked. But he ( and you ) always manage to take care of us and are always grateful.
Our Prayers and Condolences to you, your kids and extended family.
God Bless,
Ray & Kim Hickingbotham
Charlene Czarnecki
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Oh Lenore, I am shocked. I am also born in 1958 and it's far too young to be gone. I only hope it was painless for him because that is the blessing. I know you must be grieving the loss of your best friend. Twenty five beautiful years was not enough. What a legacy you built with him. I am so very sorry.'"
Sharon Dudderar
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Lenore, Kate and family, please know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.
Roy G. Snook
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Lenore, as we all try to find some words to ease the pain just know we hurt for and with you
Time, Time only can heal such a pain as this
Keep yourself surrounded by all of us, your friends, break bread, visit a lot with dear friends, sharing memories
Please sign each and every one of us up to spend time with you and your healing heart
As I write this to you, I'm just envisioning Arnold's always happy grin
Caring for you, Roy
James and Phyllis Pearce
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Lenore, we were saddened to hear of Arnold's unexpectedly passing away. We are praying for you and your family in this difficult time.
Rita Glass
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
To all of Arnold's family,loved ones I am holding you up in my prayers.May you draw comfort from God's love.It is heavens gain but the world's loss.We lost a wonderful man.In character,he was loving,kind considerate,thoughtful of others.Unselfish in his giving nature.Sweet natured and funny.I am so proud to have him as my cousin.We shared alot of visits over the years.EVERY MEMORY OF HIM ARE GOOD ONES! I will miss those hugs.He was a rare and special person.He came to visit when my sister Tanja had her by pass surgery.It meant so much to look up and see him come into the waiting room.He was also a pallbearer for my Daddy.That's just Arnold! Family was everything to him.My heart hurts so much.I've cried so,I can only imagine how his dear wife,Spencer and Aunt Pat are hurting.We just have to cherish the memories and know he is with Our Lord and Savior. The one who loved him the very most.I will see him again one day.This time it will be for all eternity. How wonderful that will be!
For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son,that whosoever believe in him should not perish,but have everlasting life.
Love you cousin'"
Rita
Mary Emily Jackson
Monday, September 8, 2025
Lenore, you and your children are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss. Much love, Mary Emily Jackson
Tony Davis
Monday, September 8, 2025
Arnold was one of "the gang" from high school. He loved Elvis music back in the 70's! Even though we've not been in touch lately, I often think of him and the rest of the "gang". When we moved to Bald Knob from California Arnold was the first person I met, in 2nd grade. I've know him longer than anyone else in my life outside of family.
I know his family is hurting. Spencer I feel for you.
I like to think Arnold is jamming to Elvis and as we always said back in the day "The gang, look'n good" and I know he is.
My deepest condolences to everyone in his family.
Robert skinner
Monday, September 8, 2025
Diane and I are very sorry for your loss. We pray for strength for you in this time.
Joseph B. Turbeville
Monday, September 8, 2025
Lenore, Norma and I were shocked to hear of Arnold's sudden homegoing! We will lift you up in prayer as you go through these difficult days.
What a great legacy he leaves for all who knew him... such a kind spirit. He helped many with his selfless service through the years working by your side. Norma and I remember fondly his patience and quiet demeanor during tax season. We will miss him. In this time of great sadness, we know that your grief is tempered in the assurance that Arnold is in Heaven, reveling in its glory with all those that have preceded him in faith.
AND WE KNOW that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
In the love of Jesus, our wonderful Lord and Savior,
Joe and Norma Turbeville
Jane Heaston
Monday, September 8, 2025
Lenore, I was stunned to hear about Arnold. He was so understanding and kind to me since doing my taxes these past two years. I will be here for you if you need me.
Goodbye Arnold your kindness will be missed.
Shirlye Marable
Monday, September 8, 2025
Lenore I am so very sorry. My prayers are with you at this most difficult time. May God give you the strength to endure
Nan Snow
Monday, September 8, 2025
Lenora, Nan and I are so sorry to hear of your loss. Arnold always had such a gentle, kind presence when we saw him at the office Lifting thoughts and prayers for you and your family
Nan and Lee
Joseph B. Turbeville
Monday, September 8, 2025
Lenore, Norma and I were shocked to hear of Arnold's sudden homegoing! We will lift you up in prayer as you go through these difficult days.
What a great legacy he leaves for all who knew him... such a kind spirit. He helped many with his selfless service through the years working by your side. Norma and I remember fondly his patience and quiet demeanor during tax season. We will miss him. In this time of great sadness, we know that your grief is tempered in the assurance that Arnold is in Heaven, reveling in its glory with all those that have preceded him in faith.
AND WE KNOW that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
In the love of Jesus, our wonderful Lord and Savior,
Joe and Norma Turbeville
Sylvia Adams
Monday, September 8, 2025
Lenore, you and Arnold are very special people and are much loved. A loss is never something that can be prepared for -We pray Gods strength be yours as you navigate ahead. We love you, your friends, Sylvia and David
Yvette Palmer
Monday, September 8, 2025
Lenore, I am deeply saddened by this news of Arnold's passing. What a shock this is! Know that you are being lifted up in prayer. I have appreciated you and Arnold so much during tax season. He was always so kind.
Joseph B. Turbeville
Monday, September 8, 2025
Lenore, Norma and I were shocked to hear of Arnold's sudden homegoing! We will lift you up in prayer as you go through these difficult days.
What a great legacy he leaves for all who knew him... such a kind spirit. He helped many with his selfless service through the years working by your side. Norma and I remember fondly his patience and quiet demeanor during tax season. We will miss him. In this time of great sadness, we know that your grief is tempered in the assurance that Arnold is in Heaven, reveling in its glory with all those that have preceded him in faith.
AND WE KNOW that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
In the love of Jesus, our wonderful Lord and Savior,
Joe and Norma Turbeville
Steve Moore
Monday, September 8, 2025
I wish I could offer words of encouragement that could ease your pain but I know that is not possible. Arnold was a super guy and I always enjoyed being around both of you. Our many dinners and social outings were always fun - they will be missed.
If there is anything Cyndi and I can do, please do not hesitate to call us.
Tracy Whiteside
Monday, September 8, 2025
Oh Lenore so so sorry my thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. I will miss my visits Arnold!
Rebecca Williams
Monday, September 8, 2025
My heart goes out to you and your family. Over the 25+ years of knowing you, I've always admired the love and respect you've shown for your dad. I hope the many wonderful memories you shared will bring you comfort in the days ahead. May GOD wrap you up and provide comfort as you navigate through this heartbreak. Please know that the Weld-Craft Family will be keeping you close in our thoughts and prayers.
Shirlye Marablr
Monday, September 8, 2025
Lenore I am so very sorry. I can. Empathize. It happened to me a few years ago. It is a devastating blow. My prayers are with you and I love you
Steve Shrum
Monday, September 8, 2025
Lenore,
Dixie and I are saddened by your loss. You and your family will be in our prayers. Reach out if there is something we can help with.
Nettie Shumpert
Monday, September 8, 2025
So sorry for your loss, I will be praying for peace and comfort for you and your family. Also praying for god's blessings in the days ahead.
Alicia Ponce
Monday, September 8, 2025
I'm sorry for your lost , he the most wonderful person a have met . A huge hug to all the family
Frank Whitmore
Monday, September 8, 2025
I met Arnold in 2016 via a property purchase and developed a cordial friendship. We talked about basically, everything . The world has lost a truly great guy!!
Condolences from the Whitmore family!!!
Sylvia Adams
Monday, September 8, 2025
May God hold you all close. Prayers up
Lanessa Bass Malmberg and Erik Malmberg
Monday, September 8, 2025
Our sincere condolences Leonore and family. We will be praying that you each are wrapped in support and comfort with friends and loved ones. May his memory be a blessing for each of us.
Carolyn Jordan
Monday, September 8, 2025
My condolences to Marge and family' so sorry to hear of Mr Arnold passing' I understand' 🙏✌️
Cassie
Monday, September 8, 2025
David Root
Sunday, September 7, 2025
Fond memory's of Arnold.
Ricky G Jones
Sunday, September 7, 2025
I knew Arnold as long as I can remember.
1 through 12 th.
When I got to the Alaskan pipeline OLDMAN camp Arnold was already there. He was 17. I was 16. We worked across the pipe from one another helping Crust Old Welders .
There was no political correctness whatsoever !! LOL
Arnold and I missed like 13 days of high school. We got back in time to graduate. I will cherish those days always.
He and I and Tony Davis, Mikey Martin and Kenny Crymes drove from Bald Knob to Dallas for the Cotton bowl in Kenny's Gremlin. Jan 1 Razorback & Georgia Bulldogs 1976.
Great memories.
I always found it amazing that when I began to weld 8 years later it was across the pipe from Arnold's dad.
Arnold and his entire family has always been so good to me.
I will never forget Arnold.
Deborah and Llewellyn Brown
Sunday, September 7, 2025
Dear Lenore and family, we are shocked and saddened for the loss of your husband and partner, Arnold. We will miss him and hope
Your family will find peace and comfort during this time of grief.
Grace and love,
Debbie and Llewellyn Brown
Carolyn Meins
Sunday, September 7, 2025
Arnold was the best. He always took the time to listen and advise. Such a kind man with a sense of humor. Will remember him always.
Kenneth J Staggs
Sunday, September 7, 2025
So very sorry for your loss he was a hard worker and took care of his family
Toni and Joe Goble
Sunday, September 7, 2025
Lenore, our hearts are broken for you and your family! Praying for God's peace and comfort through this time. Arnold was such a great guy! We love you!
Jo Ann Barrentine - Fish
Saturday, September 6, 2025
Prayers to the family in the loss of Arnold.
Jo Ann (Barrentine) Fish (Classmate)
Dwight Mason
Saturday, September 6, 2025
Your my brother you always was,good friend just a jam up guy .love you man