Tommy was the son of the late John Thomas Arendall and Ellen Milling Arendall. He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Sullins Stuart Arendall.
He is survived by his wife, Paula McDaniel Arendall, and her children; his son, John Thomas Arendall III, and his wife, Walsh Lott Arendall, and their children, John Thomas Arendall IV, William Samford Arendall, and Margaret Walsh Arendall; his daughter, Elizabeth Sullins Arendall, and her children, Kathryn Sullins Canfield, Wilson Arendall Walls, and Stuart Milling Walls; and his brother, Robert James Arendall, and his wife, Rosalind Sirmon Arendall, and their children, Robert James Arendall Jr. (Emily) and Lacy Arendall Radcliff (Bobby). Each of his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews brought him immense joy.
Tommy attended Mary B. Austin Elementary School, Sidney Phillips Middle School, and Murphy High School before continuing his education at The University of Alabama, where he was a proud member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. A loyal member of the Red Elephant Club, Tommy’s love for The University of Alabama and its football program was one of his greatest passions and a joy he eagerly shared with friends and family.
Those who watched Alabama football games or played golf with Tommy came to know and love him for his spirit, infectious laughter, and genuine love of life. He cherished his time duck hunting in the Mississippi Delta, fishing the Chandeleur Islands, sunsets on Mobile Bay and the mountains of North Carolina, and often sharing treasured stories from his beloved “Old Texas” days—memories that were central to who he was.
Professionally, Tom worked in retail furniture and commercial real estate with his brother Jim for over 50 years.
Tommy was a devoted member of Spring Hill Baptist Church, where he joyfully taught Sunday School to all ages for many years. His faith and zest for life were evident in his deep commitment to his church and community.
A private graveside service for the family will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. This will be followed by a visitation at Spring Hill Baptist Church at 11:00 a.m. and a memorial service at 12:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Mobile Law Enforcement Foundation (www.mlefoundation.com), P.O. Box 1866, Mobile, Alabama 36633. Condolences may be offered at www.pinecrestfuneralhome.com.
