Walter R Arnold

Walter Richard Arnold, 91, of Hughesville, Maryland, passed away on March 15, 2026. He was born on March 12, 1935, in Bayside, New York to the late Walter R. Arnold and Catherine Arnold. Walter graduated from the University of Notre Dame and was a proud member of class of 1956. He served in the United States Army for 2 years and later earned a master’s degree. He then embarked on a long-standing career in education. His first position as a 7th grade social studies teacher in the Kings Park School District led to various roles in administration and culminated in the position of Superintendent of Schools before retiring many years later. He was a member of the New York State Teachers Association. Walter was member of the swim team at Brooklyn Preparatory High School and worked as a lifeguard at Sunken Meadow State Park in New York for several years. He was an avid sailor learning the ropes from his father who built a 24ft sailboat in the backyard of the family home in Bayside, Queens. Walter spent many happy days sailing on Long Island Sound, on North Carolina’s Pamlico Sound and on waters off the west coast of Florida. Walter also loved history and possessed an extensive knowledge of historical events including details that others had long forgotten. He was a patient man who approached life with a calm demeanor. His faith in God was a priority throughout his life. That faith was evident in his many acts of kindness such as the time he rescued an abandoned puppy from the side of the road in North Carolina. That puppy, who he named Shadow, went on to become a 100-pound four-legged member of his family. Walter also enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, family and friends. He had an affinity for Burbon and was glad to raise a glass or two with friends. Walter is proceeded in death by his wife Stella J. Arnold, parents Walter and Catherine Arnold, and his brother Robert C. Arnold. He is survived by his sons Walter and Michael Arnold, his daughter Mary Catherine Clifford, as well as his stepdaughters Lisa Crain and Karen Swezy and stepson Mike Casazza. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren. The family will receive friends on Thursday March 26, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00pm with prayers at 5:15pm at Raymond Funeral Service P.A. 5635 Washington Ave La Plata Maryland. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday March 27, 2026, at 11:00 am at St Mary’s Catholic Church 13715 Notre Dame Place, Bryantown, Maryland with Father Rory Conley officiating. Burial will take place in the church cemetery following the funeral mass.

Walter R Arnold

March 12, 1935 - March 15, 2026