James Arnold Clements

James Arnold Clements, age 88, of West, formerly of Valley Mills, passed away early Wednesday morning, October 19, 2005 at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Temple. Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m. Friday at the First Baptist Church in West, with Dr. John Crowder officiating. Burial will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Park in Waco. The family will receive visitors from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. Mr. Clements was born on September 2, 1917 in McLennan County, the son of William H. and Carrie (Benton) Clements. He attended Alligator Creek and Tokio schools. In 1941 Arnold began faithful service to his country by enlisting in the United States Army and serving during World War II. While with the 143rd Infantry of the 36th Division he served in Germany, France, and was wounded in Italy for which he received a Purple Heart. He was honorably discharged in June of 1945. On January 5, 1942 he married Elvice Morris in Hillsboro. Arnold was a nurse attendant for the Veterans Administration Hospital in Waco for 28 years until he retired in 1973. He then went on to be a rancher who enjoyed yard work, gardening, and cooking. Arnold loved to joke and tease his friends and especially his family. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of West, V.F.W. Post No. 4819, and the Purple Heart Association. His parents and a son, Dean Clements, on May 17, 2005, five sisters, and two brothers, all preceded him in death. Survivors include his beloved wife of 63 years, Elvice Clements of West; two grandsons, Aaron Clements and wife Kris of West Chester, Ohio and David Clements and wife Kathy of Plano; three great grandchildren, Macie Clements, Fisher Clements, and Coy Clements; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.