William "Bill" A. Arnett

William A. “Bill” Arnett, 89 of Sullivan, saddled his horse for a final ride into the sunset on June 13, 2025, surrounded by the family he cherished.

Bill was born on January 17, 1936, in Merom, Indiana, to the late Roger and Velda Rockwell Arnett. He graduated from Gill Township High School in 1954. Bill proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and was a Korean War veteran. He was a member of New Lebanon United Methodist Church.

On June 24, 1960, Bill married his lifelong partner, Mary Ann Phillips. For 63 years, they built a life full of family, laughter, and a shared love for horses. He wore many hats in his lifetime, but being a farmer and horse trainer meant the most. Bill was born a true cowboy. Horses were his passion, and he rode competitively into his 80s. He was a proud member of both the AQHA and the National Cutting Horse Association. A hardworking and determined man, Bill raised his family with integrity and strong values. In his spare time, he enjoyed watching westerns and reading Louis L’Amour novels.

Bill’s greatest pride was his family. He was a devoted dad and granddad. He leaves behind a life well-lived and lasting memories shared with his son, Wallace Arnett and wife Jennifer; sister, Colleen Ridgway; grandchildren, Kaitlin Arnett Milam and her husband, Zach, William “Will” Arnett and Alizabeth Arnett; great -granddaughter, Mira Milam and son in-law, Mike Alpi.

Bill is reunited in death with his wife, Mary Ann Phillips; parents, Roger and Velda Arnett and daughter, Laura Ann Arnett Alpi.

Graveside services will be on Thursday, June 19, 2025 at 11:00 am. at Mt. Zion Cemetery, in New Lebanon, Indiana. Pastor David Lisman will be officiating.  Military Honors will be given by the Sullivan County Honor Guard. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the New Lebanon United Methodist Church or Mt. Zion Cemetery.

Holmes Memorial Chapel and staff  were honored to assist the family with arrangements.

Mt Zion Cemetery
New Lebanon IN 47882

United Methodist Church of New Lebanon
2779 Main Street, New Lebanon IN 47864
Tel: 1-812-356-4248
Web: https://www.umc.org/en/how-we-serve/umcgiving/donate