Mildred Louise Arnold

Surrounded by family, Mildred Louise Arnold passed away peacefully on July 2, 2021. Mildred will be deeply missed by her husband of seventy-six years, Charles, her sons Ron and Lynn, her daughters-in-law Rae and Lisa, her grandchildren, Chris, Sean, Amanda, Charles, Rachel, Clay and her cherished nine great grandchildren, along with countless friends and extended family.

Mildred was born in Gotebo, Oklahoma, the eldest daughter in a family with four boys and a baby sister. Being raised on a dairy farm instilled an incredibly strong work ethic and even at a very young age, Mildred learned how to take charge and take care of everything and everyone.

Mildred moved to Oklahoma City, after high school and it was there that she met the love of her life, Charles, a handsome naval officer at a diner she worked at called The Chicken in the Rough. After a brief move to Corpus Cristi and then on to Washington D.C. to help with the war effort, the two were married on the naval base in San Diego on December 6, 1944. Charles shipped out soon after to the south Pacific for eighteen months. During that time, Mildred worked several jobs and was determined to be productive and built a solid foundation for her husband to come home to. It was a different world, unique in history and it was an uncertain and adventurous life Mildred led. Mildred made the best of shortages and restrictions that war time life applies to those at home. After the war the two traveled and settled in Oregon for a short time where her two sons were born.

Mildred was an amazing cook and perfect housekeeper. Her house was always immaculate and model ready. Mildred’s cinnamon rolls, fried chicken, and apple pies were unmatched by anyone and just heavenly. Mildred was strong and courageous before a strong and courageous woman was accepted or popular as well as a beauty to behold. She believed she was capable of accomplishing anything and she was not afraid of hard work or a challenge.

Mildred was all about family. Family was always first. She was completely unselfish about giving for her family before thinking about herself. It didn’t matter what the cause, she would fight like a honey badger to defend, protect and help them in any way. Mildred loved her family incredibly deeply, and it was felt by all.

Mildred, Charles and her sons moved to Huntington Beach and in 1965 she was one of the founding administrative staff for Golden West College, Mildred worked at the college for 20 years when she decided to retire. Mildred and Charles traveled the world, including the Holy Land, China, Europe, Egypt, and the South Pacific. One of her most favorite trips was a cruise she took her sons, daughters-in-law, and all the grandchildren on to Alaska. That was a wonderful week for all of us.

Mildred’s strength, faith, and her courage will live on through her family as her loving legacy. All the cherished memories will be with us and everyone who was fortunate to have known her.

Please join us for A Celebration of Life for Mildred Arnold on Friday, July 30 at 11:00 am.

This event will be held at the Huntington Landmark Main Lounge 20880 Oakridge Lane Huntington Beach.

Lunch will be served immediately following the service so please RSVP to Rae Arnold 760 500-3201 or [email protected] no later than July 23