It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lenita Jean (Best) Arnold, 89, on May 18, 2025 in Laguna Hills, California following a short illness. A beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, Lenita passed away peacefully leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and strength.
Born and raised in Delaware, Ohio on September 6, 1935 to William George Best and Florence Adeline (Rodenfels) Best, Lenita married the love of her life, Lawrence “Duane” Arnold, in Delaware, Ohio on June 11, 1957. Lenita most recently lived at Ivy Park at Laguna Woods for the past year, embracing the friendships and support she found there. Prior to that, Lenita called Murrieta, California her home for over 30 years. Preceding Murrieta, she had been a long-time resident of Fountain Valley, California. A proud military wife, Lenita supported her husband through his service with grace and strength. During the years of Duane’s service in the U.S. Air Force, Lenita made homes for their family across the country, including: Texas (during Duane’s Officer Candidate School), New Jersey (McGuire AFB), Kansas (McConnell AFB), Delaware, Ohio (during his Vietnam deployment), Northern California (Travis AFB), and Fountain Valley, California when Duane was transferred to the Los Angeles Air Force Station in 1975. Throughout her life, she had an unwavering devotion to her family accentuated by a gentle heart.
Lenita had a successful career as a real estate agent and broker in both Fountain Valley and Murrieta for over 20 years. A life-long avid book reader, Lenita found joy and solace in literature. She was also an avid gardener who loved roses and all flowers, and thoroughly enjoyed backyard bird watching. Lenita also had a profound love for wildlife and was especially fond of dogs and cats, always cherishing the animals who shared her home and surroundings. Before starting a career in real estate, in addition to raising three boys, she was active in the Travis AFB Officer’s Wives Club. More recently, she enjoyed lunches with Duane and members of the Golden Triangle Amateur Radio Club (GTARC), appreciating the fellowship and conversations they shared. Lenita was active with the Bible Study group at Ivy Park Senior Living where she loved the spiritual and community connections. Her sense of humor and wit brought joy to those around her, and she touched others with her compassion and grace.
Lenita was a devout Lutheran and a devoted member of Christ the King Lutheran Church in Fallbrook for over 30 years, a place she and Duane lovingly called home. Her faith was an enduring part of her life and a source of strength and community. She was also an avid quilter and an active member of Christ the King’s Stitch N Give, using her sewing and quilting talents to bring warmth and comfort to those in need. Whether she was offering a listening ear or a reassuring smile, Lenita gave of herself freely.
Lenita was predeceased by her husband, Lawrence Duane Arnold, who passed away on March 27, 2023; her son, Kevin Arnold, in 1995; and her sisters, Anna Marie (Best) Stanforth and Mary B. (Best) Arnold both of Delaware, Ohio.
She is survived by her sons, Gregory Arnold, Mark Arnold and his wife Lisa, all of Orange County, California. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Gillian (Arnold) Cargilo, Chad Arnold, Daniel Arnold, Kendra (Arnold) Shelton, Brent Arnold, Joshua Arnold, Kaitlyn (Arnold) Thompson and seven great-grandchildren. Her memory will live on in the stories she shared, the traditions she created, and the love she gave.
A celebration of life will be held on July 26, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Lutheran Church of the Cross, 24231 El Toro Road, Laguna Woods, CA. Luncheon will follow in the Social Hall at the church.
Lenita Jean Arnold’s life was a beautiful example of kindness, resilience, and love. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit remains ever present in the hearts of those she touched.
Saturday, July 26, 2025
Starts at 11:00 am (Pacific time)
Lutheran Church of the Cross
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