Lester Charles Arnold, 81, of Jonestown, passed away on Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at the Hershey Medical Center after a year-long illness. He was the husband of Jeannie L. (Anthony) Arnold. They celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary on June 5th.
Born in Cocolamus on May 23, 1945, he was the son of the late John W. and Mary P. (Snyder) Arnold. Lester graduated from East Juniata High School with the class of 1963. He continued his education at Messiah College, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in behavioral sciences in 1967. He worked at Family and Children Services in Lebanon and Mental Health Mental Retardation of Lebanon County, and he retired from Hershey Foods after 29 years of service.
Lester was a charter member of the Sand Bridge Rod and Gun Club Inc. He enjoyed the hunting and fishing seasons the most. He instilled a love for them in his children and grandchildren. Lester was also a master trapper and relocator of skunks, groundhogs, and squirrels. In the last three months, he skillfully harvested 38 squirrels. Most of all, Lester was a truly good man who loved his wife deeply, guided his children endlessly, and cherished his grandchildren with all his heart.
He enjoyed traveling with his wife. They took numerous bus trips throughout the country, making many fond memories and good friends. He enjoyed visiting presidential libraries and was an avid reader.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Stephanie L. (Terry) Richardson, of Harrisburg, Todd M. (Abigail) Arnold, of Beaver Springs, and Brent D. (Jenny) Arnold, of Annville; grandchildren, Matthew (Kira) Kelley, Erin R. (Keaton) Hoch, Ashliegh (Issac) Buck, Drew K. (Justina) Arnold, Robbie Kelley, and Cameron Arnold; and great-grandchildren, Moira L. Kelley and Colton R. Arnold. He was preceded in death by his infant sister, Anna Mae; and brother, Rev. Barry J. Arnold.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, at Kreamer & Lum Funeral Home & Crematory, Jonestown. There will be a viewing from 6-8 p.m. on Friday evening and one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Interment will follow at Wenger Meetinghouse Cemetery, Jonestown.
