Benjamin "Ben" Wright Arnette, Jr.

Benjamin (Ben) Wright Arnette, age 77, passed away on October 25, 2023.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin Wright Arnette, Sr. and Ethel Irene Arnette.  He is also preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Elizabeth (Libby) Arnette.  He is survived by his daughter, Kathy Arnette, son-in-law Brian Smith, granddaughter Ava Arnette, his brother Charles Arnette (Toko), his sisters Judy Arnette and Shelia Wilson (Ken), sister in law Billie Hicks (Woody) and his beloved dog, Elvis.  Special nieces & nephews, Sarah Bullard (Jon), Morgan Smith (Matt), Chris Wilson (Danielle), Douglas Vaughn, Ginger Vaughn.  Great nieces Amanda Rogers (Blake), Shannon Arnette, Sarah Arnette (Nick), Kelly Spivey (Miles) and his god daughter, Laurie Currie (David).

Upon graduation from Grimsley High School, Ben spent most of his professional life in textiles.  After the closure of the textile mills in the area, Ben became a driver for CJ Medical Transportation.  He enjoyed spending time with his family and his most cherished title was “Papa”.

He was a devoted fan of Carolina basketball and enjoyed discussing the game with his best buddy, Charles and good friend, Louis Taylor.  His favorite way to relax was in front of a good western with his constant companion, Elvis, his little dachshund, in his lap.

The beach was Ben’s preferred vacation spot especially if there was a casino nearby.  Although not a fan of flying, he was fond of recalling his fun-filled trips to Las Vegas, Bahamas and Hawaii.

Ben was the embodiment of kindness.  He never met a stranger and anyone who knew him enjoyed his company.  He was consistently aware of the needs of others and always willing to help.

Ben was intelligent and curious with an impressive store of trivia on hand.  He particularly enjoyed surprising his sister, Judy whenever they caught a game of Jeopardy on tv.  He had a lively sense of humor, loved to make puns and took few things in life seriously including himself.  Whenever he was around, he was smiling (Unless, of course, his food or drink STILL had not arrived – something he took very seriously indeed).   He tended to be rather nonchalant about life’s ups and downs, which he discussed with his sister Shelia remarking only: “But anyway, it is what is”. 

Ben was the incarnation of the best traits of human nature.  We love and miss you.  Rest in Peace.

A celebration of his life will be held, Friday, November 3, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at George’s Brothers Funeral Home 803 Greenhaven Dr.  Greensboro NC  27406.  The family will receive friends and loved ones prior to the service from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.

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