

Richard Clark Arnold, Jr, 87, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away on January 22, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 21, 1938, in San Antonio, Richard lived a long and full life defined by hard work, a vibrant and outgoing spirit, and deep devotion to those he loved.
Richard served six years in the Active National Guard, followed by two years of inactive duty, earning a full honorable discharge with 5A classification. In March 1973, he earned his Certified Internal Auditor certification, marking a significant professional achievement. He was also a dedicated member of the San Antonio Chapter of the Institute of Internal Auditors, serving in leadership roles—including Committee Chairman and ultimately Chapter President—from 1966 to 1978.
Richard built an exceptional 37-year career at City Public Service (CPS), beginning in 1956 and retiring in 1993. He advanced steadily through roles of increasing responsibility in internal auditing and financial operations, ultimately serving as Director over several divisions, including Financial Support, Transportation, Stores, and Systems & Projects. His leadership, integrity, and analytical skill left a lasting imprint on the organization and the people who worked alongside him.
Richard also devoted time to personal growth and fraternity. He was a proud Freemason, achieving the respected rank of Master Mason, reflecting his commitment to character, fellowship, and service.
Beyond his professional and fraternal achievements, Richard was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in golfing, hunting, and fishing. He was also a highly skilled and dedicated bridge player, earning the distinguished rank of NABC Master through the American Contract Bridge League—a title awarded only to players who excel in sanctioned competition and accumulate significant masterpoints through consistently strong play. This accomplishment stands as a testament to his sharp intellect and lifelong love of strategy.
Richard is survived by his wife, Marbeth Arnold, with whom he shared more than 42 years of marriage and many meaningful years of companionship. He is also survived by his daughter Rhonda Sims; his stepdaughters Traci Pals and her husband Tony Pals, and Ann Guest and her husband Jason Guest; and by his son-in-law Ed Rowden, the husband of his late daughter Brenda Jean “Jeannie” Rowden, whose memory remained close to his heart.
He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters, Marjorie Tucker and Bettye Gandarilla, and by Bettye’s husband Luis Gandarilla.
He leaves behind a large and proud family:
Grandchildren:
· Derek Kutzer
· Jessica Morris and her husband Shannon Morris
· Justin Rowden and his wife Carla Rowden
· Danica Franks and her husband Josh Franks
· Zachary Guest and his wife Emily Guest
· Hayley Guest
· Mia Pals
Great-grandchildren:
· Scarlett Rowden, Allison Rowden, Kate Rowden
· Dawsyn Franks
· Blaise Kutzer
· Knox Morris, Scout Morris
Niece and Nephew:
• Michael Benke
• Randall Benke
• Denise Keefe
A CELEBRATION OF LIFE will be held on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Porter Loring Mortuary North, 2102 North Loop 1604 East, San Antonio, TX 78232.
Richard Clark Arnold will be remembered for his strong character, his outgoing spirit, his love for connecting with others, and his deep devotion to his family. His influence lives on in the many people whose lives he touched and in the generations who carry his memory forward.
Family request Memorial Contribution be made to Abiding Presence Lutheran Church in Memory of Dick.
DONATIONS
Abiding Presence Lutheran Church14700 San Pedro Ave., San Antonio, Texas 78232
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