James Mooney Arnold, 81, was born May 29, 1936 in Kansas City, Kansas to Albertha and Leon Arnold, Sr. After his mother died at childbirth, he was adopted by Joe and Aloise Mooney.

James graduated from Sumner High School in Kansas City, Kansas in 1954. He was served on the National Guard Reserves.

James gave his life to Christ at an early age at the Church of the Living God (CWFF) in Kansas City, Kansas. He was one of the first members of the Palestine Missionary Baptist Church of Kansas City, Missouri. James enjoyed working in the Church, especially singing in the choir.

James worked as an elevator operator for Hartzfeld's Clothing Store and then worked for the Rock Island Railroad as a Lineman where he was employed until his health began to fail eventually losing his eyesight.

James married Daisy Mae Higgs and to this union four children were born. He was known for his wittiness, had a great sense of humor, and enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a great cook learning from the best, his mother.

James was admitted to Highland Rehabilitation & Health Care Center where he was known to be the welcomed source of laughter for the staff and residents. He departed this life on Sunday, December 17, 2017. Preceding him in death were his parents, Leon and Albertha; adoptive parents, Joe and Aloise; wife, Daisy; and sisters, Thelma, Leola and Claudia.

He leaves to cherish his memory: two sons, James (Karla) and Rev. Damon (Regina) Arnold; two daughters, Caron Taylor and Jolynn Arnold; brother, Leon (Mary) Arnold; sister, Josephine Mooney Nelson all of Kansas City, MO; grandchildren, Amber, Christopher, Lakyla, Sherman, Damon Jr., Dion, Tylin, Ledayia and Kennedy; three great grandchildren, five brothers and sister in-laws, and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services Saturday, December 23, 11:00 a.m. at Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Interment Brooking Cemetery. Visitation 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the chapel. Services conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on our website.