Arthur Lawrence Bigelow

Arthur, known as Art to most, was born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1933 to Arthur Linwood Bigelow and Catherine Elizabeth Egan Bigelow. After a brief time at The University of Notre Dame, he transferred and graduated from The University of Dayton. He later obtained his Master’s in history at The University of Cincinnati.

At 22, Arthur entered The United States Army, where he was stationed in Arkansas. During his time in the Army, he proudly served in many roles. Most notably, Arthur stood guard for the Little Rock Nine during their integration into an all-white school. He also typed up the paperwork inducting Elvis Presley into the Army. He received an honorable discharge in 1958.

Arthur relocated to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he began his lifelong career in Banking and Real Estate Development. For 46+ years, he held executive roles in a variety of companies, including Barnett Bank, Bank Atlantic, Bank United, and CNL Bank before retiring.

His name was a staple in the Broward County community. Arthur held a special place for philanthropy, sitting on the Board of Directors for the Y.M.C.A (Past-President), Broward Partnership for the Homeless, and the Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce.

Art’s appreciation of history took him on many adventurous trips across the world. Turkey, Egypt, Monte Carlo—anywhere he could soak up the knowledge and lifestyles of other cultures. He also had a love for the outdoors and frequently enjoyed fishing and diving in the Florida Keys or the Bahamas with family and friends.

Most notably, Art was a runner, competing, he estimated, in over 100 marathons around the world. He ran several Boston and New York Marathons, often at a 7 min/mile pace. It was common to catch him jogging along the local Fort Lauderdale roads with a smile and a wave.

All who knew Art knew he was a true gentleman to the core. He spoke with the joy of happiness, laughed with his whole body, and would welcome a stranger like an old friend. His generosity knew no bounds. Arthur shared his confidence widely that everyone deserved a shot at succeeding. He gave opportunities even when the odds may be tough and cheered on others' achievements with pride.

Above all, Art was an incredible dad and grandfather who will be missed greatly. Arthur is survived by his daughter, Dr. Jamie Marie Bigelow, and granddaughter, Madeline Ethel Bigelow, of San Francisco, California, and his son, Daniel Arthur Bigelow, wife Carmen Bigelow, and granddaughter, Amelia James Bigelow, of Jacksonville, Florida.

A celebration of life has been planned for Sunday, May 17th, 2026. Family will receive guests from 4-7p.m. at D’s Sport Bar: 620 S Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301.