Holly MatkinHumboldt, TN – Humboldt Police Lieutenant James “Jimmy” Arnold died at his home on March 25.
The 58-year-old veteran officer’s exact cause of death was not released.
Lt. Arnold served with Humboldt Police Department (HPD) for a total of 27 years, the Gibson County News reported.
He spent five of those years working as a reserve officer, and went on to serve the next two decades as a full-time officer.
Lt. Arnold was an active member of the department, and taught the D.A.R.E. program in city schools for many years, according to his obituary.
He was also a driving instructor, assisted with HPD’s gang unit, and was a member of the critical incident debriefing team, the Gibson County Press reported.
Lt. Arnold loved his job, “and worked very hard to advance to his current position of lieutenant,” his obituary read.
“My best memory with Humboldt Police Department involved responding to a house fire on N. 19th,” he said in 2018, according to the Gibson County Press. “Myself and another officer were able to get the residents, along with their pets, out of the residence to safety.”
He was a beloved member of the community he served.
“Jimmy was a true friend and servant to the community of Humboldt,” residents Howard and Sandy Hayes wrote on the fallen lieutenant’s memorial page. “His smile and friendliness will be long remembered by all those who were blessed to know him.”
“You were admired and loved by so many people,” Tammy Juergens wrote in another post. “I will miss seeing you around and getting my hug and asking if you were behaving yourself…fly high with the angels my friend until I see you again.”
HPD said it was thankful for the outpouring of support it has received in the wake of Lt. Arnold’s death.
“The support we have been shown during this hard time has been amazing,” the agency said in a Facebook post. “Please continue to keep the family of Lt. Arnold and the Department in your prayers.”
Lt. Arnold leaves behind his daughter, Emily, as well as his mother, sister, granddaughter, and former wife, according to his obituary.
“Jimmy was loved by all, and he was a kind hearted and caring father and grandfather,” his obituary read. “He will surely be missed by everyone.”
Lt. Arnold was laid to rest on March 29.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Humboldt Police Lieutenant James “Jimmy” Arnold, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.