James Everett Arnold and his faithful canine companion Tubby of Belle Fourche were in a fatal motor vehicle accident on September 14, 2025.
James was born on November 15, 1957, to James and Virginia (Lolly) Arnold in Helena Montana. Working on cars and pickups with family inspired a lifelong passion for tinkering and travel.
James joined the Army in 1975 and was discharged in 1977.
In 1978 he married Sandy. Junior was born in 1979, Melissa in 1980.
In 1980 and 81 he was enlisted in the South Dakota Army National Guard.
In 1983 he graduated from Western Dakota Vo Tech with a degree in Auto Mechanics. From 1985 through 1999 he transported cars across the United States.
In 2000 he joined the family business of building custom homes and building custom cabinets. In 2003 he was paralyzed in a construction accident which he was able to overcome to pursue his passions of travel, tinkering, and woodworking.
In recent years he had become friends with the staff at Signature Auto in Spearfish as they helped keep him rolling on his paper routes around Spearfish and Belle Fourche. James enjoyed the 4 wheeling adventures that his friend, Heith, included him in around The Black Hills, Colorado, even as far as the Rubicon Trail in California.
James loved spending time with family and friends always accompanied by his closest friend Tubby. He cherished the time he spent with his daughter and grandchildren.
James was preceded in death by his grandparents and his parents James and Virginia Arnold. He is survived by his brothers Ralph Arnold and Scott (Traci) Arnold. His sister Angel (Forrest Nash) Arnold. His son James Everett (Sandra) Arnold Jr. and daughter Mellisa (Toby) Miller, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Graveside services with military honors conducted by Rushmore VFW Post 1273 Honor Guard and the South Dakota Army National Guard Honor Guard will be held October 10, 2025 at 12:30 PM at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, SD.
In lieu of flowers please donate to www.hoboshealingheart.org.
Friends and family may sign the online guest register and leave written condolences at WestRiverFuneral.com.