Obituary for Dr. George Milam Arnold, Jr., 1924-2026

Born on January 11, 1934, in Millican, Texas, George was the son of George and Hazel Arnold. He received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Texas A&M University in 1959. Following his graduation, he founded Arnold’s Animal Hospital in Lake Charles, Louisiana, where he practiced for over 40 years, particularly enjoying his work with dogs. He held prominent positions in his field, including Vice President of the Louisiana Board of Veterinary Medicine in 1977 and President from 1979 to 1981. George also innovated a tracheal surgery that became part of the Texas A&M Veterinary School curriculum. Even after retiring in 2003, he returned to assist with surgeries at another veterinarian's practice until the age of 82.

In addition to his veterinary achievements, George was a talented gourmet cook and founded Henri’s Barbecue restaurant. He was also a patent-holding inventor of an elevated electric bed.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Patricia Arnold; children Jeff Arnold (Laurel), Vane Geter, John Arnold (LaReese), Tom Arnold (Jennifer), Anna Mize (Jeff), Julie Green (Wade), and David Benoit (Debbie); along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his parents, sister Blanche Prescott, and brother Douglas Crawford.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on October 14, 2026, at Johnson Funeral Home in Lake Charles, Louisiana, officiated by David Benoit. Visitation will take place from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM prior to the service. Interment will follow at Consolata Cemetery. Pallbearers will include John William Arnold, Patrick Harper, Ryan Laurence, Roland Mays, Jacob O’Neal, Jaylen Smith, and Bobby Stout. Memorial donations may be made to www.vesselsoflife.com.