Community mourning local leader

Owen County lost one of its most recognizable citizens – Dr. Charles Calvin “C.C.” Arnold died Monday.

Dr. Charles Calvin “C.C.” Arnold

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Dr. Arnold, who was born in Squiresville, served as a dentist in Owen County for more than 50 years. He also served as mayor of Owenton from 1969 to 1973, president of the Owen County Parent Teachers Association and chairman of the Owen County Hospital Board.

Janetta Keith, who went to work for Arnold as a dental assistant in 1977, said Dr. Arnold was a devoted dentist.

“He gave many long hours to his dental practice and Owen County,” Janetta Keith said. “He gave much of his dental work without payment, but it came with the price of advice about healthy eating habits and how much money you could save.”

Owen County Judge-Executive Carolyn Keith said Arnold served his community at little cost.

“Dr. Arnold is an example of what I call the greatest generation,” Carolyn Keith said. “He worked hard to get through school and came back to Owen County and helped so many who could not afford dental work. I think he and his wife Hazel Jo were a great asset to this community.”

Owenton Mayor David “Milkweed” Wotier said he will remember Arnold for his contributions to the city of Owenton.

“He always had the interest of the city at heart,” Wotier said. “He worked very hard on the water issue in Owenton, to bring resolve to the water quality and quantity issues in Owenton. He set an example of how to be committed and love your community.”

Community Health Planner at Three Rivers District Health Department Melody Stafford said her very first job was with Dr. Arnold.

“He gave me my first job at the dentist office,” Stafford said. “He was very tolerant of a 12-year-old girl who had just lost her father and needed a job desperately. He taught me how to be a dental assistant, a receptionist and so many other things.”

Stafford said Dr. Arnold also served on the Three Rivers Health Board.

“Having a dentist on the board is very important and he served us well,” Stafford said. 

Janetta Keith said Arnold loved serving his patients and his county.

“Dr. Arnold always loved Owen County and all of his patients who came from far and wide,” Janetta Keith said. “Some thought he was slow, but doing it the correct way the first time saved a lot of teeth. His conversations will be missed by all. He was a great person, father and dentist who loved Owen County to the end.”

Funeral services for Dr. Arnold will be held at 11 a.m. today at the Owenton First Baptist Church with Bro. Jim Craigmyle officiating. Burial will be in Owenton Cemetery.