Ronnie Rae Arnett

Ronnie Rae Arnett, of Murray, KY, passed away on September 28th, 2025, after a long, courageous battle with cancer. 
 
Ronnie lived a life full of adventure, compassion for others, and selfless service to her family and to the community. She was born in Dalhart, Texas in 1952 and moved with her family to Buchanan, TN. She graduated from Henry County High School and attended Freed Hardeman College. Ronnie later graduated from Murray State University with a Bachelor of Science degree and obtained two master's degrees in social work and communications. Ronnie moved to Anchorage, AK in 1999 where she lived for twenty years and worked as a social worker and case manager, serving that community as an advocate for the homeless at Brother Francis Shelter. She also taught Public Speaking and Interpersonal Communications at the University of Alaska-Anchorage.
 
Ronnie cared most about her six children, Michael, Samuel, Daniel, Benjamin, Susan and Jeremiah, and considered them her life’s most treasured accomplishments. She had a strong work ethic and a love for lifelong learning. She encouraged her children and countless others to attend college and earn their degrees. Ronnie was the life embodiment of Shel Silverstein’s “The Giving Tree” and also wrote poetry herself. She retired and moved back to Murray, KY to be closer to her children, 28 cherished grandchildren, and four daughters-in-law (Sarah, Christie, Sara, and Misty). 
 
She was a wonderful cook and was always happy to share her delicious blueberry muffins and homemade rolls. As the matriarch of the Arnett family, she taught her kids how to drive a stick shift, shop thriftfully, be kind to others, and live life like Christ instructed. Ronnie had a unique gift to see the best in people and constantly encouraged those around her to understand and meet their potential. In addition to being survived by her children and grandchildren, she is survived by her husband Marion Ward and two sisters, Cathy Frank and Floy Nell Carl.

Honoring Ronnie’s wishes, a private graveside service will be held for family at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Buchanan, TN. 
 
The family is especially grateful to the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House, the kind folks at Meals on Wheels, and for all the love and support from our friends and family. Expressions of sympathy, in memory of Ronnie, can be made to either of these wonderful organizations. 
 
Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to be entrusted with the care of Ms. Arnett.  Please share your messages of condolence by signing her virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.