Judith Arnold

Judith (Judie) L. Dolan Arnold
MS, NCC, LPS (Ret.)

Augusta, GA – Judie L. Arnold died Monday, January 13, 2014 at her home. Judie was born to the late Harold (Bud) and Corona Dolan, on March 31, 1945, in Two Rivers, WI. She was preceded in death by her parents, paternal and maternal grandparents as well as by her only sibling, Peter W. Dolan. David H. Arnold, Judie’s brother-in-law, also preceded her in death. Perhaps the greatest loss in Judie’s life was the passing of her darling husband, Tom, truly the wind beneath her wings. Tom passed in September 2012.

Judie graduated from Washington High School, Two Rivers, WI in 1963. She served as Editor-in-Chief of the high school’s newspaper, The Neshotah News. Judie was an active member of Polliwogs, the school’s synchronized swimming club, the drama club, Student Council and the Girl’s Athletic Association.

On July 9, 1978, Judie married Thomas S. Arnold, MD, the love of her life. Judie believed their union was special, a fairy tale romance that never failed to provide her support, encouragement and the undying belief that she was the most important part of their relationship, a relationship that served as the perfect example of what a marital relationship ought to be.

While in Manitowoc, WI and employed at the Manitowoc Health Care Center, Judie was instrumental in the union’s (AFSCME) effort to organize part-time employees. Those efforts ultimately resulted in recognition of those workers and, more importantly, equal pay for equal work, an accomplishment that gave her a great deal of satisfaction and pride.

Judie and Tom moved to Augusta, GA in 1980 and lived there for the remainder of their lives. Judie enrolled at Augusta College (now Georgia Regents University) as a 43-year-old freshman. She was active in college organizations as well as being dedicated to her academic pursuits. A member of Psi-Chi, the National Honor Society in Psychology, since 1991, Judie also served as Public Relations Officer and then President of the Augusta College Chapter. She was also a member of the College Ambassador Board. Judie was tapped into Phi Kappa Phi in 1992. She remained a life-time member of both Psi-Chi and Phi Kappa Phi. Judie earned a BA degree, summa cum laude, in Psychology. She was also honored as Outstanding Undergraduate Student by degree by the Psychology Department’s faculty. Judie continued her education at the graduate level and earned an MS degree in Psychology, with honors, having been named Outstanding Graduate Student. In addition, Judie was appointed to the August College Academic Policies Committee, a committee comprised of active college faculty and students. She was also listed in Who’s Who in American Universities and Colleges.

Judie was a contributing member to the Southeastern Psychology Association as a student affiliate and a charter member of both the north American Masters in Psychology and the Georgia Association of Masters in Psychology. Undaunted by political policies and pressures of the time, Judie successfully achieved the status of Nationally Certified Counselor in 1997 and gained independent licensure as a Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia. While a student and also during her professional career, Judie served the Augusta Mental Health Association as a member of the Board of Directors and also as an officer.

With seemingly tireless energy and personal strength, Judie was one of the first to offer assistance to others, to provide counsel and to be a trusted confidant. Judie’s philosophy of life embraced the concepts of loyalty to and sharing with others. Judie was considered an accomplished cook by many who eagerly shared at the family’s bountiful table. In retirement, Judie’s pleasures included sharing joyous time with her beloved Tom, cooking, reading and tending their home, yard and pool.

Although faced with occasional challenges, Judie’s life was one filled with love, good cheer and significant rewards. She experienced many pleasures including exciting travels around the world, wonderful friendships, and undying love and boundless joy with her devoted husband, Tom. Those who knew Judie will cherish memories of her wit, generosity and loyalty.

Left to mourn her mother’s passing is Judie’s beautiful and talented daughter, LeighAnn Rebillard and her husband, James (Jamie). LeighAnn was not only a loving and supportive daughter, she and her husband left their home in Indiana and moved to Augusta, Georgia. Living with Judie, LeighAnn and Jamie selflessly took on the role of caretakers and assisted in fulfilling mother’s medical, physical and emotional needs, a position not many are able to manage with such grace and compassion. LeighAnn’s son, Bodhi Lund also mourns the loss of his grandmother. Judie is also survived by her loving and supportive brother-in-law, Raymond W. Arnold and his delightful wife, Shirley. Janice Arnold, Judie’s sister-in-law survives in addition to children from Tom’s previous marriage, Wendy Leroux, Thomas J. Arnold and Heidi Bender. Judie leaves to grieve her loss, sister-in-law (sister-girl) Carolyn Arnold, and many friends who continued to love, support, encourage and assist her as she made her way through the process of death and dying. Those most meaningful and cherished to Judie were faithful friends throughout the years as well as from across the miles, each of whom knows the special place he/she held in Judie’s heart.

According to Judie’s wishes, her remains have been cremated and there will be no formal services acknowledging her death. The family can be reached at the Arnold/Rebillard residence. Saddened by the thought of anyone going hungry, Judie suggested that those wishing to make a contribution in her memory consider The Golden Harvest Food Bank, 3310 Commerce Drive, Augusta, GA 30909 or to a charity of choice.

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com