James Clinton Arthur

James Clinton Arthur passed away on February 15, 2023, at the age of 77 surrounded by his loved ones. Clinton was preceded in death by his parents Jett Clinton Arthur, Jr. and Laverne Pitts Arthur, and his mother-in-law Ida Jurisich.

Clinton was born on May 22, 1945, in Nacogdoches, Texas. The family moved to Metairie in 1946 and were lifelong residents. Clinton graduated from East Jefferson High School in 1963, received a B.A. from Southeastern Louisiana University in 1966, M.B.A. from the University of New Orleans. Clinton was drafted during the Vietnam war and served 2 years in the Army stationed in Germany.

When he returned home, he lived in the French Quarter where he met Alicia. He was also able to reacquaint with life long-friends who also lived there. He was employed as an accountant with New Orleans Public Schools, Shell Oil Company and later self-employed.

Clinton’s dream of becoming a songwriter led him to move to Nashville in 1978. He wrote many songs which he performed in festive gatherings. Many of his songs were requested by his friends and fans. Clinton returned to New Orleans in 1995 and his lifelong love of music continued. He attended every jazz festival and often hosted friends from Nashville.

Clint and Alicia married in 1997 in Oahu, Hawaii. They enjoyed traveling throughout Europe, Asia, and the United States. They took trips yearly to celebrate their anniversary and returned to Hawaii in 2022 for their 25th anniversary.

Clinton passionately loved New Orleans, its music, people, food, and bars. He was a lifelong Saints fan and a season ticket holder. He and Alicia often followed the team and to out-of-town games.

Clinton gave tokens to his friends on special occasions. He loved giving a coin with a fleur de lis on one side and the word believe on the other side. He gave this coin to waiters, bartenders, and whoever he met. The mere delight of those who received the coin was astonishing. Clinton always looked for a special gift that was perfect for the recipient.

Most of all Clinton was a storyteller. He derived great joy from weaving a tale or singing one of his much-loved story songs.

Clinton was a quiet, gentle man with a warm smile who appreciated the differences in people and took care not to offend others. He was a true blessing to anyone who knew him.

Clinton is survived by his wife Alicia Arthur, his sisters Martha Ann Stitsinger (John deceased), Laura Porter (Albert), nieces and nephews, Jenny Lussier (Allen), Art Walters, Godson, Jett Porter (Erin), Megan Porter Abbott. Sisters-in-law, Diana Casey (Michael deceased), Stephanie Johnson (Dan deceased), Betty Jurisich (Malcolm deceased), nieces and nephews, Brett Casey (Lindsey), Brad Casey (Erin), Colleen Hammond (John), Mike Casey (Jeanne), Kelly Repaal (Christian), Byron Casey (Toni), Malcolm Jurisich Jr., Allison Rollins (Tim), Nicholas Jurisich (Melissa). He is also survived by many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Clinton was loved and will be greatly missed by friends and family. He will always be remembered in our hearts.

Friends and family are invited to a celebration of Clinton’s life on Sunday, March 26, 2023, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at The Christopher Room, 6254 Vicksburg Street, New Orleans, LA 70124.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.LeitzEaganFuneralHome.com for the Arthur family.