Ronald (Ron) Russell Arnold, 81, beloved father of his six children, Jill Monk (Robert), Bruce Arnold (Debra), Rodney Arnold, Marc Arnold, Gail Tyson (Charley), and Colleen Bibby (Arran), and grandfather of eight, Aarin Arnold, Kammer Tyson, Julia Tyson, Emi Arnold, Poppy Arnold, Simon Arnold, Sophie Bibby, and Katie Bibby, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on December 20, 2022, in Savannah, Georgia.  In addition to his children and grandchildren, he is survived by a sister, Ann Mahlman. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 61 years, Eileen (on December 3, 2022), and by his parents, Cleon and George (Russ) Arnold.

He was a loving, supportive, and inspirational father and grandfather, who always prioritized his children and grandchildren and made it clear that he believed in each and every one of them. Throughout his life, Ron attended hundreds of events, ranging from basketball, baseball, and football games to dance recitals and other performances, art shows, tennis matches, and car races. If a child or grandchild was a participant, chances are Ron (Papa) and Eileen (Mimi) were there.

Born in Berea, Ohio, Ron was a serial entrepreneur with a career that spanned almost 70 years (from the time he was about 13 years old). He grew up working in his father's aggregate business, Atlas Sand and Gravel, in western Pennsylvania. Ron eventually took over that business and then started several related ones.  He and Eileen moved to Rincon when he started a second sand and gravel plant in the Savannah area. His last business, Sand Dollar Recycling, continues in operation. Ron's deep understanding of the aggregate industry, early adoption of technology, and visions for new opportunities were distinguishing features of his career.

The time he spent working with his sons, Bruce, Rodney, and Marc, over the last 40 years, was particularly meaningful to Ron. He was also passionate about collaborating with others who shared his interest in building businesses, particularly his lifelong friend David Howard.

Beyond family and work, Ron enjoyed being part of the local Rotary Club. He loved spending time with his dog, Beau, relaxing at the beach, fishing, and watching sport and sprint car racing.

Ron always believed anything was possible. This, coupled with his drive, resilience, street smarts, and willingness to give things a try, made him a natural entrepreneur.  But what his children and grandchildren will most remember him for is his patience, generous spirit, and advice: Never be afraid to try, to fail, or to ask for what you want or need to succeed.  Regardless of the twists and turns, Ron lived his life with gratitude, feeling fortunate, especially for his family.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the caring staff at Hospice Savannah.

A memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 28, from 3 to 5 pm at Thomas C. Strickland and Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel, 2460 Highway 21 South, in Rincon.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider a Tribute Gift in memory of Ron to the Georgia 4-H Foundation, 309 Hoke Smith Annex, Athens, GA 30602, or online at georgia4hfoundation.org .