Robert A Arnold

Robert Alan Arnold—“Bobby” to his family and “Bob” to so many who became friends—passed away on July 28, 2026. He was born on December 14, 1944, in Warsaw, Ohio, to Lewis and Leatha (McNeal) Arnold and grew up in Ohio alongside his siblings. He graduated from Warsaw High School in 1962.

Even as a young man, Bob had something that would stay with him throughout his life: he could talk to anybody. He had an easygoing charm, a quick wit, and a genuine interest in people. Give Bob a few minutes with a stranger and, more often than not, that stranger became someone he knew.

Over the years, Bob called Alexandria, Springfield, and Sterling, Virginia, home. Then, in 1989, he and his beloved wife, Sharon, began a new chapter when AAA transferred its headquarters, along with Sharon's position, to Sanford, Florida. Florida became home—and Bob made the most of it. A natural salesman and lifelong people person, Bob spent much of his career in sales. But selling was never really just about the merchandise. Bob was always about the people - the ability to connect with just about anyone.

In his later years, he found a perfect outlet for both his love of a good bargain and his love of people at Renninger's Flea Market & Antique Center in Mount Dora, Florida, where he operated his booth, 2-Days Beds & Furniture.

Bob searched far and wide for pieces he thought were too good to pass up. Estate sales. Auctions. Flea markets. He was out hunting for “great deals” almost every week. And when Bob found something he liked, there was usually only one question: Where are we going to put it?

His treasured pieces and collectibles became somewhat of a curiosity shop and folks would stop by his now expanded six booths to marvel at the unique finds. And each one had its own story.

Behind the salesman, the storyteller, the bargain hunter, and the man who could talk to anyone was a man who paid attention to the people he loved, and tried to help them out whenever he could. And when it mattered, he found a way.

Bob and his cherished wife, Sharon, shared 45 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, family, and countless memories. He adored his two daughters, Tamara Gill and Zena Dampier, and his quick wit and unmistakable grin had a way of making them smile no matter what. When his son, Bobby Jr., came along a little later, Bob embraced his role at home during Bobby’s early years, creating a special bond between father and son that would last a lifetime. Bob was immensely proud of all his children and their families, who brought him immeasurable joy. He treasured his sister, Carole Strauss, and brother, Kelly Arnold, and was blessed with a circle of countless dear friends and other family members who became an important part of his life.

But Bob's family was never limited to those connected to him by blood. There were the people he worked with. The people he sold to. The people he bought from. The people he met at auctions, estate sales and other gathering places.

So perhaps Bob's story shouldn't end with a list of accomplishments or dates. Perhaps it should end the way Bob lived—with a story, a laugh, a wink, a wave to a “new” friend. He left behind a collection of moments. And if you were lucky enough to be part of his life, you probably have one of those moments of your own.A memorial service will be held on August 20, 2026 at 5:30 pm at Elizabeth Evans Park in Mt. Dora Florida.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Special Olympics Florida in honor of Bob's memory. Those wishing to make a contribution may do so at support.specialolympics.org.