Lola Belle “Laverne” Arnold, 97, of Mt. Vernon passed away Tuesday, September 1, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was born on January 26, 1929, in Carrigan Township, the daughter of Nelson and Cloria (Kirgan) Hicks. She married Cyrus McNicol “Mac” Arnold on August 17, 1945, in Nashville, TN and he preceded her in death on October 25, 2013.

Survivors include her beloved family, her children, Gerry Arnold of Mt. Vernon, IL, Rebecca Smith of Mt. Vernon, IL, and A. Renee Carter of Streator, Illinois; grandchildren, Jennifer Estes, Jayson Elliott, Christopher Arnold and wife Juha, Kari Arnold, Nathan Arnold and wife Ashton, Rylie Roubal and husband Brian, Caylee Roudebush and husband Ryan, and Lyta Carter; great-grandchildren, Sophia Estes, Caleb Estes, Yuna Arnold, Lovett Arnold, Pax Roudebush, and Kit Roudebush; brother, Hershel Hicks and wife Betty; half-brothers, Richard Holland, and Larry Holland; two nieces, one nephew, extended family members, and friends.

Along with her devoted husband of 68 years, Cyrus “Mac” Arnold, Lola was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Delbert Hicks, and Verlin Hicks; sister, Margaret Hicks; half-sister, Charlene Black; sister-in-law, Ella Nattier; sons-in-law, Al Smith, and John Carter; and son, Alan Arnold

Lola was a true lady and the very heart of her home. She was grateful to care for her family, devoted to providing a comfortable place to land as her husband’s service in the Army had them calling many places throughout the states, and even France, home. Her caring nature also extended into her work. Lola worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant at St. Mary's Hospital in Centralia, where she was known as an excellent caregiver. Caring for others came naturally to her.

Lola had many talents and passions. She was an accomplished quilter, knitter, and seamstress, creating beautiful things with her hands and enjoyed gifting her work. She and her husband shared a deep interest in their family's history and genealogy. Lola took that passion a step further by becoming a published author, writing more than one book documenting her extended family's genealogy. Perhaps some of the happiest memories of Lola live in her kitchen and around her table. She was famous in her family for her mashed potatoes—especially beloved by her grandchildren—and her barbecue was something everyone looked forward to. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren held a particularly special place in her heart. She loved every one of them dearly and took great joy in watching them grow. Lola and her husband shared a special relationship filled with affection and a healthy dose of sarcastic humor. It was a wonderful reminder of a long life together is made not only of big moments, but also countless little ones filled with laughter.

Her family will carry her with them always—around the dinner table, during family gatherings, in stories told and retold, and in the laughter that she taught them never to take for granted. Lola leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, family, and cherished memories that will live on for generations.

A celebration of life service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 5, 2026, at the Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia where wonderful stories of her life will be shared by her family. Interment will be at Patoka City Cemetery, where Lola will be laid to rest beside her husband, Mac. Relatives and friends are welcome to attend the visitation from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at the funeral home in Centralia. Memorials may be made in Lola’s honor to Patoka City Cemetery. Online condolences and memories of Lola may be shared with her family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.