James “Jim” Thomas Arwood, 59, of Marianna, Florida died Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at Jackson Hospital.
Jim was born October 28, 1963, in Opelika, AL to William and Edith Arwood. He grew up in Midland City, AL and was a 1982 graduate of Dale County High School. The class motto for his graduating class was, “If they say it can’t be done, watch us and see.” Jim took the motto to heart and was ready to tackle his future with determination, which he did.
After high school, he attended Wallace Community College where he received his degree in Drafting as well as Radiological Technology. He was a draftsman for a few years before starting his career in Radiology. He worked for Southeast Alabama Medical Center, now Southeast Heath, and Flowers Hospital before coming to Jackson Hospital, where he would work for the next 18 years. Even though he was an Alabama native, Jackson Hospital welcomed him with open arms and quickly became family.
Personally, and professionally, teaching was one of Jim’s passions. From teaching Brandon, the perfect way to hold a flashlight while working on a vehicle, to teaching students who were in the clinical portion of their studies, he enjoyed helping and teaching eager minds who were willing to learn. He was always ready to lend a helping hand or deliver a word of advice, solicited or not. Jim lived by the saying, “Don’t think you know, know you know,” and he put that into practice with every project he tackled. He approached every project with dedication and excellence, ensuring to give everyone and everything his best.
Jim was a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and co-worker. He was loved by so many and was ready to greet anyone with the best hug, day or night. His main priority was his family and his relationship with Jesus, and he always made sure to put them first. He valued time and connection with people more than material things. After his family came his patients. He loved helping and making an impact in other’s lives, being caring and gentle to each and every patient, regardless of the circumstances. Jim was respected by his peers, colleagues, and patients for not only his attentiveness but also his integrity.
He was preceded in death by his father, William S. Arwood, Sr; mother, Edith W. Arwood; and brother, Steven L. Arwood.
Jim is survived by his wife of 15 years, Shannon M. Arwood; son, Brandon C. Arwood; brother, William S. Arwood, Jr. (Jane); sisters, Rebecca E. Arwood, Linda S. Mirrop (Troy “Drew”); nieces and nephews, Bryan S. Arwood (Kristen) David L. Arwood, Corey L. Arwood, Rena Ray (Stewárt), Rickelle Hadley (Mike Wall); great nieces and nephews, Grey Gurell, Lorelai Arwood, and Ansa Arwood.
Funeral services will be 4 PM Monday, May 15, 2023, at James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel. The family will receive friends from 2 PM until the time of service.
