James Arnold Teems , December 12, 1931 — May 24, 2018

Mr. James “Arnold” Teems, age 86, of Old Fort, passed away Thursday, May 24, 2018 following a period of declining health at the NC State Veterans Home in Black Mountain. His family was by his side when he transitioned to his eternal home, reunited once again with his beloved wife of 60 years, Peggy Randall Teems. Arnold was born in Hayesville on December 12, 1931 to the late Edgar Teems and Grace Moody Teems.

Upon graduation from Swannanoa High School, he enlisted in the United States Air Force serving during the Korean War. He subsequently graduated from the University of Tennessee. Arnold worked in Human Res for several local firms during his career.

His approachable nature and love of people served him well and he won many friends over the years. His fairness and honest reputation was well known. Arnold served on many boards in the community and gave unselfishly of his time.

He enjoyed hunting and was a member of the McDowell County Cattlemen’s Association and the Joppa Lodge #401 in Old Fort. Arnold leaves behind three children, Carol Carver and husband Gary of Old Fort, David Teems and wife Laura of Naples, FL, and Lisa Murphy and husband Mark of Old Fort; a sister, Zelda Kasey of Charlotte; four grandchildren, Ben and Doug Carver, Taylor Murphy Bartlett, and Holly Murphy; and four great-grandchildren, Makayla, D.J., and Olivia Carver and Harper Bartlett. The family will receive friends on Sunday, May 27, 2018 from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. at Westmoreland Funeral Service and Cremations in Old Fort.

A service of remembrance and celebration of his life will follow at 3:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Todd Hinson and Dr. George Ellis officiating. Burial will follow in the Cherry Springs Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to Four Seasons Hospice at 571 S. Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731, or to the NC State Veterans Home at 62 Lake Eden Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711.

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