On December 15, 2024, William Arnold Ratheal, known as Arnold to friends and family, took his last breath at 3:45 a.m. in Lubbock, Texas at the age of 91. Arnold was born in Crosby County, Texas on June 16, 1933 to William Horace Ratheal and Gertie Ann (Moore) Ratheal. After graduating from Crosbyton High School in 1950, Arnold attended Texas Tech University where he graduated in 1954 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture. Arnold began farming before graduating from Texas Tech in Crosby County and continued farming until 2021. Arnold was often heard saying "farming is all I've ever done and all I'll ever do." According to all that knew him, Arnold was happiest when driving a tractor or just being at the farm. In addition to farming, Arnold loved sports, especially baseball, traveling, and classic cars.

At the time of death, Arnold was married to Lila Carr Ratheal and resided in Crosby County until 2022. Arnold is survived by his children, Vickie Emmons (Vern Emmons); Juli D'Ann Ratheal; Randy Ratheal (Christy Ratheal), all residing in Lubbock, Texas and Rodney Ratheal of St. George Utah from his previous marriage to Duffy Jean Austin. Arnold is also survived by seven grandchildren (Jonathan Webster, Rebecca Webster, Laura Powell, Michael Ratheal, Ryan Ratheal, Karisa Udy, and Kailye Adair) and twelve great-grandchildren. Additional surviving family members include step-daughter, Michelle Virissimo (Jeff) and their 3 children Jake, Benjamin and Nicholas. Arnold is preceded in death by William Horace Ratheal (father), Gertie Ann (Moore) Ratheal (mother), Vera Margene Ratheal (infant sister), LeeRoy Horace Ratheal (brother), Christopher and Enoch Webster (grandsons).

Graveside services will be at Crosbyton Cemetery on December 19, 2024 at 1:00.