Paul Arnold

Paul William Arnold, 92, passed away at 7:40 a.m., Sunday, September 20, 2026 at his residence surrounded by love.

He was born in Grafton, Illinois on August 21, 1934, the oldest child of the late Paul Edward and Gertrude (Pohlman) Arnold.

"Sonny" as he was known by many, loved his Grafton, and was a lifelong resident.

He graduated from Jersey Community High School, and attended Rolla School of Mines, before being drafted with the United States Army serving a tour in Japan.

Paul was very involved with the community that he loved so much, and was very active in many organizations, serving on numerous boards, dedicating his time and efforts for the betterment of those he served. He was President of Grafton Communications, a family business that he was extremely grateful and proud to be a part of.

He was pillar to not only his community, but most importantly to his family, and led quietly with a firm foundation and belief in his faith.

He married the former Patsy Erline Cates on September 28, 1956 in Grafton, and they soon would have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. The two were blessed with a wonderful life, and a beautiful family that they have cherished watching grow throughout the years.

Surviving are his wife, Patsy Arnold of Grafton; his two children and their spouses, Paul Michael and Susan Arnold and Susan and Kevin Hamilton, all of Grafton; eight grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Mary Church and Suzie Hedger, both of Grafton, and Kathleen and Ron Reid of Springfield; and a brother in-law, Martin Kirbach of Jerseyville.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Barbara Kirbach; and two brothers-in-law, William Hedger and Wilbur Church.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Grafton.

He will be laid to rest in Scenic Hill Cemetery in Grafton, with the Grafton American Legion Post #648 conducting military graveside rites.

Memorials may be given to Jersey Community Hospital Foundation or to St. Francis/Holy Ghost Catholic School in Jerseyville.

Memories may be shared with the family at www.crawfordfunerals.com.