Janet (Scott) Arnold Obituary May 19, 2026 | Indianapolis, IN
Janet (Scott) Arnold, 78, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
Janet (Scott) Arnold, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, entered into eternal rest on May 19, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Known for her warm smile, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith, Janet lived a life filled with kindness, dedication to family, and quiet acts of service that touched everyone around her. She will be remembered as a woman of grace, strength, and deep love for those closest to her.
A Life Well Lived
Janet Marie Scott Arnold was born on August 11, 1947, in Indianapolis, Indiana. She grew up in a loving family on the city’s south side, where she learned the values of faith, hard work, and compassion. After graduating from Manual High School, Janet attended Indiana University, earning a degree in Elementary Education.
She dedicated over 36 years to teaching in the Indianapolis Public Schools system, touching the lives of hundreds of young students. Former students and colleagues often described her as a patient, encouraging teacher who made learning fun and helped every child feel seen and valued. She retired in 2009 but continued volunteering as a tutor and Sunday school teacher for many years afterward.
In 1970, Janet married the love of her life, Richard Allen Arnold. Together they built a beautiful home and raised a family grounded in love, laughter, and Christian faith. Janet was a longtime active member of Southport Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir, taught children’s Bible classes, and organized many fellowship events. She had a passion for gardening, baking, reading, and sewing. Her famous chocolate chip cookies and holiday pies were always anticipated at family gatherings and church potlucks.
Above all, Janet found her greatest joy in her family. She was the proud matriarch who never missed a school event, sports game, or special milestone in her children’s and grandchildren’s lives.
Surviving Family Members
Janet is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Richard Allen Arnold of Indianapolis; her children: daughter Lisa (Mark) Thompson of Carmel, Indiana, and son Steven (Jennifer) Arnold of Fishers, Indiana; her cherished grandchildren: Emma, Jacob, and Olivia Thompson, and Noah, Sophia, and Benjamin Arnold; and many loving siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Margaret Scott, and her sister, Patricia Scott Miller.
Funeral Details and Arrangements
A Celebration of Life service for Janet (Scott) Arnold will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Southport Baptist Church in Indianapolis, with Pastor Michael Reynolds officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday, May 29, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Flanner Buchanan Funeral Center – Southport.
Interment will follow at Crown Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers will include her son, son-in-law, and grandsons.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Southport Baptist Church’s Children’s Ministry or to the American Cancer Society in Janet’s loving memory.
A Heartfelt Tribute
Janet (Scott) Arnold was the heart of her family and a source of gentle light to all who knew her. She lived with grace, loved deeply, and served others with a humble and joyful spirit. Whether nurturing students in her classroom, caring for her family, or offering encouragement to a friend in need, Janet gave generously from a heart full of compassion.
She taught her children and grandchildren the beauty of faith, the importance of family bonds, and the grace found in everyday kindness. Her warm hugs, wise counsel, delicious home-cooked meals, and peaceful presence created a home filled with security, laughter, and love. Janet faced every season of life with quiet courage and an unshakable trust in God.
Though our hearts ache with her passing, we find great comfort knowing Janet has gone home to her Heavenly Father, reunited with loved ones who preceded her. Her legacy of love, faith, and gentle strength will continue to live on through her family and all the lives she so beautifully touched.
Condolences and Guestbook
The Arnold family warmly invites relatives, friends, former colleagues, and church members to share memories, stories, and words of comfort in the guestbook below. These tributes will be treasured as the family celebrates Janet’s beautiful life and finds strength during this time of sorrow.
