Mary Lou Arnold

Mary Lou Arnold, 92, passed away on September 2, 2024, in Fort Worth, TX.

Mary Lou was born on September 22, 1931 in Tescott, KS, to Harry Merriman and Jessie Nolf.

Mary Lou married Brooks Arnold on September 28th, 1956 at Connell Baptist Church in Fort Worth, TX. The couple had 2 children, Curtis Arnold, of Benbrook, Marji Arnold Hawthorne, of Fort Worth.

Mary Lou was affectionately known as Mimi to her family and friends. Mary Lou and Brooks served together at Connell Baptist Church for many years. They led a vibrant bus ministry in the 70's and 80's that transported hundreds of children to Sunday School and worship each week. They were also youth sponsors and went on mission trips, retreats, choir trips and summer camps. Mimi loved music and was the church organist for about 60 years. She had a heart for less fortunate children and became an adopted Mimi to many. She would distribute candy from her organ bay following Sunday services. The children, and some adults, often resembled the altar call at a Billy Graham Crusade as they came forward to get their sweet treats for the week. Mimi also taught piano in her home to hundreds of children from the west Fort Worth area. She especially loved practical jokes and slightly risque shenanigans. Oh the stories that could be told. Mimi was also an animal lover. She especially loved dogs and usually had a couple, usually rescues, at any particular time.

Mary Lou is survived by; Children Curtis Arnold and spouse Lisa of Benbrook, TX, Marji Hawthorne and spouse Terry of Fort Worth, TX, Paige Brown (Granddaughter) and spouse Hunter of Fort Worth, TX, Caitlin Wittman (Granddaughter) and spouse Tim of Grand Prairie, TX, Eric Roberson (Grandson) and fiancee Andi Furtado, Joseph Arnold (Grandson) and Luke Hawthorne (Grandson) all of Fort Worth, TX.

Mary Lou is preceded in death by Brooks Arnold (Spouse), Jessie Noff Merriman (Mother), Harry Merriman (Father), Joyce Satterlee (Sister), Aaron Merriman (Brother), Raymond Merriman (Brother), Larry Merriman (Brother), Claudine Ashcraft (Sister), Glenda McAfee (Sister).

Burial: Graveside service 10:30 am September 11th at the Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery, Dallas, TX. 

Celebration of Life Service: 4pm Sunday September 15th at Citylight Fort Worth Church (formerly Connell Baptist Church), Fort Worth, TX. The family will gladly receive guests following the service in the fellowship hall at the church. 

We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to all of Mary Lou's caretakers at Ridgmar Medical Lodge and Community Healthcare as well as Kara Bowles and Lisa Arnold.

Memorial donations can be made in Mary Lou's name to Citylight Fort Worth ministries for children, youth or music.