Gary Leigh Arnette, 77, of Richmond, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 14, 2020, at his home.

Gary was born on Dec. 22, 1942, in Monrovia, California, the son of James Paul and Dorothy Mae (Cooper) Arnette Sr. He was united in marriage to Janet L. Ross of Natick, Massachusetts, on Sept. 12, 1970. She survives of the home.

Gary also leaves behind four sons, Greg Arnette of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, James (Michele) Arnette of West Newbury, Massachusetts, Kevin Arnette of Lexington, Missouri, and David Arnette of Maryville, Tennessee; and two granddaughters, Allison Arnette and Meg Arnette.

He was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Dr. Clyde Brower; and brother, James Paul Arnette Jr.

Gary was reared and educated in the area of his birth. After high school, he attended California State Polytechnic University, where he graduated in 1966 with a degree in chemical engineering. He would go on to found three companies: his first company was Trimont Chemical Co. in Peabody, Massachusetts, which he owned and operated until 1988, when he sold the company and moved to Richmond, Missouri, to become a gentleman farmer. While in Richmond, Dow Chemical Co. brought him back into the chemical world. He then built the chemical company called Pacific Epoxy Polymers, south of Richmond, and sold this company in 2000. Gary went on to start another company, Arnette Ltd., which he owned and operated until 2015, selling out to Rhino Lining, but remained a consultant for them until May 2019, when he retired. After retirement, Gary bought a sawmill and that was going to be his new hobby. Gary enjoyed working, learning and creating.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Richmond Educational Foundation for the high school science lab.They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Cremation with private family services to be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Thurman Funeral Home. Please remember to share your memories of Gary with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.