Joseph P.N. Arel

Joseph P.N. Arel, age 86, of Clarksville, TN passed away on Sunday, February 12, 2023 at Tennova Healthcare. He was born on May 19, 1936 in Providence, RI to the late Gerard Pierre Arel and Alexcina Raymond Arel. Joseph cherished his family and was a devoted husband and father. 

He proudly served his country in the United States Army and Navy for over 20 years During his military career, he received the following awards: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Three Good Conduct Medals, Navy Unit Commendation, Parachute Badge, and Expert Pistol Shot Medal.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 66 years, Mary Kate Arel; his children, Joseph Paul Arel, Mary Annette (Clyde) Thigpen, and JoAnn (Kirk) Wood; his grandchildren, Joe (Sarah) Thigpen, Frank (Lindsey) Huggins, Katie (Ryan) Mitchell, Levi Arel, and Wyatt Arel; and great-grandchildren, Emory Thigpen, Bailey Thigpen, Bella Kay Thigpen, Joesy Ann Thigpen, James T. Mitchell, Dalton W. Mitchell, Nolan B. Mitchell, and Taylor A. Huggins. Joseph is also survived by several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Thelma Lacroix. 

A funeral service will be held at Gateway Funeral Home on Sunday, February 19, 2023 at 2:00 P.M. There will be no visitation prior to the service. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements are under the care of Gateway Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 335 Franklin St. Clarksville, TN 37040. Phone: 931-919-2600. Online condolences may be made by visiting gatewayfh.com.