James Arnold Browning

First Sergeant James Arnold Browning, United States Army Ranger, USA (Ret.) of Verdunville, WV passed away peacefully January 24, 2021, with his family by his side. Arnold was born March 12, 1935 at Dempsey Branch, WV to the late Wille and Jenethel Browning of Verdunville. His distinguished Army career spanned more than 20 years with tours in Korea and Vietnam. His numerous decorations include completion of Ranger Training, three Bronze Star Medals, Good Conduct Medal, two Army Commendation Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Republic of Korean War Service Medal, Korean Presidential Unit Citation, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Army Expert Qualification Badge for Marksmanship, Parachutist Badge for completing Airborne training course, Combat Infantry Medal and the United Nations Service Medal. He was also part of the 3rd Infantry Division, the most honored Division in the Army. Arnold also retired after 25 years with Pittston Coal Company and was an active member of the United Mine Workers of America Local Union 8454. He is predeceased by the love of his life, Betty Jo Browning of Verdunville. He is also predeceased by his brothers, William “Billy” Ray Browning, Kennith Browning, Ernest “Shot” Browning and one sister, Katherine Browning. Arnold is survived by his children, Richard (Terri) Browning, Mike (Sandy) Browning, Sandy Browning Bowen, and Steve (Mimi) Browning and grandchildren Jimmy Browning and April Browning, Melissa Browning and Brandon Browning, Jennifer Bowen Soto and Brittany Bowen Wright, Stevie Browning and Scotty Browning and many great grandchildren, great, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his brothers, Ora Lee (Rhonda) Browning and Curtis Roger (Diane) Browning, sisters Toni (Paul) Perdue, Shirley Tomblin, and Judy (Ray) Stamper, Naomi (Pee Wee) Hensley and Sue (Reed) Hale. He loved watching his kids and grandkids play sports and you would always see him and Betty at their games, near or far. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. A graveside service with full military rites will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Pecks Mill, WV. Entombment in the mausoleum will follow the service. Online condolences may be left at www.jamesfh.com Arrangements have been entrusted to Akers-James Funeral Home, Logan, WV.