Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

January 6, 2025

CHARLOTTE – Arnold G. Philemon, 82, of Charlotte, NC passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Monday, January 6, 2025, with his beloved wife, Patricia (Tish) by his side.  Not only was Arnold loved by his wife of 59 years, but his family, friends and anyone who would come into contact with this fun-loving, kind soul.

Arnold, a native to Charlotte, was born on November 18, 1942, to the late Crawford Leo and Flora Jean Bumgardner Philemon.  Arnold was one of six children, including four brothers Ed (Cumming, GA), Bruce (Kure Beach, NC), Mike (Sacramento, CA deceased), Steve (Charlotte, NC) and one sister, Sheila Boone (Charlotte, NC). 

Arnold graduated from South Mecklenburg High School in 1961 and began his career with Western Electric in October of that year.  In 1963, he joined the Army National Guard, proudly dedicating six years to serving his country. A few years later, in April of 1965, Arnold married his high school sweetheart, Tish Walker.  The couple were married at St. John’s Baptist Church, where Arnold was a longtime member and served in various capacities, reflecting his strong faith and commitment to his community.

Arnold and Tish had two daughters, Leslie Parker (Fort Mill, SC, married to Jeff Parker) and Dana Webb (Charlotte, NC, married to Doug Webb).  Later, Arnold would be affectionately known as “Bobble” to his four granddaughters, Emily Parker (deceased), Hannah Parker DeLay (Tega Cay, SC, married to Brendan DeLay), Olivia Webb (Charlotte, NC) and Kendall Webb (Charlotte NC).    Arnold’s family was his greatest joy, and he treasured every moment he spent with them, always making them his top priority.

Arnold dedicated 40 years of his life to Western Electric (later AT&T and Lucent Technologies).  His work took him and his family to Columbia, SC, Marietta, GA, and ultimately back to Charlotte, NC.   He took great pride in his dedication to the company, starting in the warehouse in his early years and working his way up to a managerial role in customer service.

After retiring, Arnold found joy working for Arnold Palmer Cadillac, transporting cars along the East coast.  A lifelong car enthusiast, he loved the opportunity to drive a variety of vehicles.  Retirement also gave Arnold more time to embrace his passion for golf.  He looked forward to his weekly golf outings and treasured the trips he took with his brothers and friends to Myrtle Beach, SC—his happy place.

A Celebration of Life honoring Arnold Philemon will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, January 17, 2025, at St. John’s Baptist Church.  The family will receive friends following the service at the church.   

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Arnold’s memory to Via Health Partners, 7845 Little Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28226 or to St. John’s Baptist Church, 300 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28204.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.