Jay Isaac Arnold

Jay Isaac Arnold, 87, of Liberty Township, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2024, surrounded by his family.

Born on September 27, 1937, in Beattyville, Kentucky, Jay was the son of Rowland and Julie (McIntosh) Arnold. He spent his early years enjoying the outdoors, often hunting and fishing with his dog, Brownie. He was known for sneaking into the local movie theater and working at the service station in his hometown. After graduating from Lee County High School, Jay enlisted in the U.S. Army and later began his long career at Ford Motor Company.

In 1961, Jay met Betty on a blind date in Norwood, Ohio. When he arrived to pick her up, he was greeted by her sister and a friend, and neither of them made it easy for him to figure out which one was Betty. Nevertheless, the two quickly fell in love and were married on December 26, 1964. Together, they built a family, and their children became the center of their world. Jay had a special affection for animals, always treating them as part of the family, especially his beloved cat, Tuxie. His other furry companions, Zeppelin, Fender, Luna and Coco, will miss him dearly.

Jay's 40-plus-year career at Ford’s Sharonville plant was a source of pride for him, and he will be fondly remembered at his monthly retirement meetings. Always on the move he loved spending time outdoors, whether walking around the lake near his home, caring for his cars, or tending to his yard. Also a dedicated coach for his daughters' soccer teams, Jay was known for his ability to fix anything and his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He was an avid fan of UK basketball, the Cincinnati Reds, the Bengals, and, above all, his grandchildren. We’ll always imagine hearing him say “don’t forget to go to bed or turn off the lights” one more time.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers, Clyde, Virgil, Clarence, Ernest and Dudley Arnold; and one sister, Reba, and is survived by his wife Betty (Daulton) Arnold, three children, Jennifer Holder, Kristen Arnold and Kimberly Arnold; two grandchildren, Kennedy and Jaylin Holder; four sisters-in-law, Stella Lastoria, Betty Sue Daulton, Anna Daulton and Marcia Arnold Watts; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, other loving relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held at Hodapp Funeral Home, 6410 Cincinnati Dayton Rd., Liberty Twp., OH 45044, on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, from 11 AM until time of the Funeral Service at 12:30 PM. Entombment will follow at Butler County Memorial Park.

Jay will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.