Charles Edward Arnold, 84, of Brownfield passed away Sunday, Sept. 11, 2011, at his residence. Charles was born June 25, 1927, in Frederick, Okla., to Searcy and Mary Arnold. He attended Boyd Elementary through high school until graduation, where he was valedictorian. Charles attended Langston University in Oklahoma, where he majored in biology and math and received a Bachelor of Science degree.

Charles began his teaching career in Frederick, Okla., and then moved to Levelland, Texas, where he served as assistant principal for two years. In 1953, the family moved to Brownfield and Charles became principal of Wheatley School. In the ensuing years his accomplishments included earning a master's degree in school administration and superintendent certification from the University of Colorado in Boulder.

He was a member of Phi Delta Kappa, past president of the Lion's Club, member of Terry County Chamber of Commerce, former president of Brownfield TSTA, Credit Union board member and the recipient of the Muldrow Award.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife Brenda; daughter, Charlyce Arnold; his granddaughter, La Nisha Arnold; sister, Joyce Stenson; two nieces, Ella Bryant and Marilyn Anderson and a host of other relatives and friends.  Preceding him in death was a son, Charles Arnold, Jr.

Visitation was held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, 2011, at 1st Baptist Church Brownfield, with services to follow at 12 noon with Pastor Eugene Reed officiating. Interment will follow at Terry County Memorial Cemetery under the direction of Griffin Mortuary.