Arnold Dean Nix

Arnold Dean Nix was a patient, loving and determined husband, father, grandfather and brother who always found the best in the lives of those he touched. He was a devoted Christian whose relationship with his Savior, Jesus Christ was evident in his daily walk to both friends and family. He would often work to assist in the maintenance and repair of his church, after a long day at work. His life could be seen through his obvious belief in the scripture John 10:10; the thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. Arnold’s strong faith and upbringing in the Southern Baptist Church gave him peace throughout his life knowing that God would provide for the needs of his family and life. He went to be with his heavenly father and be reunited with his parents and other family members on Thursday, September 24, 2015 at his home in Sand Springs with his loving family by his side.

Arnold was born December 23, 1929 in Cushing, Oklahoma. He was the son of William Francis and Emma Frances (Peck) Nix. After his birth, Arnold lived with his family in Yale for a short time before relocating to the Nix family farm between Hallett and Jennings. It was during his childhood that he learned how to farm and always maintained a beautiful garden throughout his life. He received his education in Hallett, graduating from Hallett High School in May of 1947.

Arnold started dating the love of his life Lula Mae Mills when he was fifteen and Lula Mae was twelve. They were united in marriage on December 24, 1947 in his parent’s home on the farm near Jennings. While dating Lula Mae, Arnold would often ride his horse Dixie to see her. The couple made their initial home in Tulsa when Arnold accepted employment as a carpenter; working for Bill Moore Construction, building many of the houses in the downtown Owasso area. Arnold learned his skills as a carpenter at an early age from his grandfather, Giles Peck. In 1957, Arnold joined the Central South Carpenters Regional Council, Local Union 943. He then accepted a new position as a carpenter for National Bank of Tulsa (NBT). Arnold worked at NBT for nearly thirty-five years adding new construction, remodeling offices, and building furniture. One of his most memorable projects was a circular desk he built for the lobby/foyer area of the bank. This piece was admired by customer to the bank from all over the world. After corporate downsizing at National Bank of Tulsa, Arnold accepted a position working at Warren Place. There again he worked in all aspects of carpentry for building management. Arnold retired in 1994 and was surprised with a huge retirement party at Warren Place.

Arnold and Lulu Mae moved their family to Sand Springs in 1951. He and his sons constructed their current home behind Riddle’s Plant Farm. They framed, roofed and finished the entire home themselves. Arnold was proud of his carpentry skills and considered it not only a job but provided him with the skills to build their home and numerous furniture pieces.

His fondest memories centered on his family including going fishing with his father. When he was young his dad always called him “Kid.” Additionally, he remembered a cat that would lie across his shoulders while riding ole Dixie to see Lula Mae. Arnold always displayed his faith and was certain that the Lord provided for all his family needs. He was passionate about assisting anyone in need and making sure he represented Jesus in everything he did.

After Arnold’s retirement, the couple was fortunate to travel all over the United States, Canada and Mexico. They traveled in nearly every state and considered Niagara Falls as one of their favorite places. They could often be found listening to gospel music and especially loved the Gaither’s music. Arnold enjoyed spending time in his garden and also loved sharing his knowledge of farming with his grandchildren.

Arnold is survived by his wife of nearly sixty-eight years, Lula Mae Nix of the home in Sand Springs, Oklahoma; two sons, William David and his wife Nina Nix of Sand Springs, Oklahoma and Phillip Arnold and wife Linda Nix of Mounds, Oklahoma; four grandchildren, Mary Trekell, Jeremy Nix, Zachary Nix and Meredith Stilwell; four great-grandchildren, Brandon Lee, Brett Trekell, Tyler Nix, Palmer; a great-greatgrandson, Jase Lee; brother, Gene and wife Juanita Nix of Cleveland, Oklahoma; and a sister, Lucille Maxwell-Ellison and husband Greg Ellison of Sand Springs, Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Francis and Emma Frances Nix and a sister, Juanita Francis Ward.

A celebration of life service for Arnold Dean Nix will be held at 2:00 pm Wednesday, September 30, 2015 at Chapman-Black Funeral Home with Gene Black serving as celebrant. Burial will follow at the Bethany Cemetery in Hallett under the direction of the Chapman-Black Funeral Home. Friends may share a memory with the family at the funeral home or online at www.chapman-black.com