Francis Arnold, 85, of The Villages, FL passed away peacefully on May 17, 2024, after a long life well-lived and well-traveled. Frank was born at Emerson Hospital, in Concord, MA on January 10, 1939. He was the son of the late Charles Patrick Arnold and Elsie Elie Arnold.
He was predeceased by his only sister, Norma Smith of Detroit, MI.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan, his sons, Jonathan Arnold (Jeri) of Millstadt, IL, Jeffrey Arnold (Anne) of St. Peters, MO, step-sons, Christopher Wilson of Tampa, FL and Dr. Jeffrey Wilson (Ellen) of Tampa, FL. Frank was the caring grandfather to Riley, Henry, Maggie, Brady, Evan, Tanner, Emma, Abby, and Olivia.
Frank graduated from Concord High School in 1957, where he was Class President his Junior and Senior years as well as a 12-Letter varsity athlete. He continued his education at UConn (BS), Auburn University (MPA), and Doctorate program at Nova Southeastern University (FL) (DPA). Frank was a commissioned USAF Officer who completed a meritorious 25-year career, retiring in 1987 as a Colonel.
His achievements include 111 missions into the Vietnam combat zone. After USAF retirement, he was employed in industry as a Systems Analyst. In 1988, he began a distinguished 20+ year academic career at Saint Leo University (St. Leo, FL) from which he retired in 2014 with the prestigious title of Professor Emeritus.
Frank was an adventure enthusiast who cherished many travels with Susan, having visited 80+ countries worldwide. Frank and Susan were never shy of an adventure.