Age 78, Luray, Va.
Lonnie Wilson Arrington Jr. passed away Sunday, January 3, 2021, at his home in Luray. He was born July 22, 1942, in North Carolina, while his father was stationed at Fort Bragg. He was the son of Lonnie W. Arrington Sr. and Edna Virginia Good Arrington.
He graduated from Luray High School in 1960 and immediately enlisted in the United States Army. He served two years and was honorably discharged. He then entered the Air Force Reserves. While in the Reserves, his unit was called up during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He returned home safely when the crisis was settled. After leaving the service, he lived the rest of his life in Luray.
In his early working life, he was employed as a carpenter, until an accident caused him to lose a leg. He began his career at the Town of Luray as the recreation director. He later was promoted to assistant town manager. He also served as the town manager during an interim period, but ended his career after 26 years as the assistant town manager.
After retiring, he ran for the Luray Town Council, easily winning. While on the Council, he was a member of the Planning Commission. He served on the Council until health issues forced him to step down. Lonnie was always proud of his service to the Town of Luray, and he was especially pleased with the progress he saw in the town during his tenure.
Lonnie was a former member and past president of the Luray Lions Club and a past member of the Luray Moose Lodge. He was an avid Nationals fan. He and his wife, Mary Ann Arrington, had managed the First Street Apartment complex for many years.
He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend.
On July 23, 1977, he married Mary Ann Judd, who survives.
Also surviving are two daughters, Lori Maas and husband Daniel of Staunton, and Stephanie Shenk and husband Mark of Stanley; two stepsons, Wayne Beaver of Luray, and Jeffrey Beaver of the Faith Mission Home; two sisters, Alma Pettit and Alice Gray, both of Luray; one grandson, Koty Gray of Williamsburg; one step grandson, Jermey Beaver of Bealeton; one step granddaughter, Ashley Shenk of Elkton; one step great-grandson, Emanuel Shenk of Elkton; numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Pebbles.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Michael A. Arrington of Luray.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Page County SPCA.
Arrangements are being handled by the Bradley Funeral Home in Luray, Va.
Mr. Arrington was a very nice man who did a fine job for the Town. His interactions with the public were always cordial and respectful. A trusted and respected Civil Servant. He will truly be missed. G Gibbs
Our community has lost a wonderful person. My sympathy to Mary Ann and family. I had the privilege of working with and for Lonnie at the Town of Luray. He was a mentor that had a profound impact on my career. More importantly, I was blessed to have him as a close friend. And believe me, no one could ever have a better friend than Lonnie. I, along with many others, will miss you dear friend.
I agree with all the kind words about Lonnie. He was kind and a very funny man.He always had a kind word.He loved this community and he will be missed