Obituary of Roland Stene Arthur

Roland Arthur passed away on October 22, 2024, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of his dedication to life’s adventures, hard work, compassion and emerging challenges for each new endeavor.  He was an incredible Father, husband, brother, friend, businessman, cowboy, sailor, and mentor to many.

A service to celebrate his incredible life will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 29, at First United Methodist Church of Fort Worth, 800 W 5th St.   All are invited to the reception that will follow at Joe T. Garcia’s, 2201 North Commerce Street, Fort Worth, Texas. 

Born on August 12, 1942, in Dallas, TX, to Myrel and Jake Arthur, Roland’s entrepreneurial spirit began early with operating his own firework stand and then opening a flower shop. While remodeling the flower shop, his purchase and ultimate sale of a bulldozer sparked his lifelong passion for heavy equipment sales, ultimately developing into his global used Caterpillar business. In addition, he bought, developed, and sold real estate.  With energy to spare, he spent many hours on his beloved ranch in Westlake, bulldozing the land, tending cattle, planting hay, and participating in the building of two log homes.   

Roland’s love for adventure also extended to the sea, where he found joy in sailing both for pleasure and competitively. He raced sailboats from 22-feet to 80-feet, eventually competing in the prestigious America's Cup race. Roland’s presence was larger than life, and he was a mentor to all who knew him.  This amazing man comingled hard work, determination, excitement, boundless energy, and passion.  One of the most unique aspects of this wrangler-clad incredibly successful businessman was his down to earth simple outlook as he remained the life of the party. 

Roland was preceded in death by his parents, Myrel and Jake Arthur, and his brother, Alvis Arthur. He is survived by his loving wife, BeAnn Arthur; his children, Rhonda Smith, Melinda Marshall and her husband Paul, Justin Sisemore and his wife Evin, and Natalie Sisemore; his grandchildren, Angelica, Tiffany, Kristina, Erika, David, Drew, Ashton, Saylor Grace, Sutton, and Sevy; his great-grandchildren, Rylan, Cohen, and Atlas; his sister, Sharla Bush; and a host of extended family and friends. 

The cruel effects of Alzheimer’s disease interrupted Roland’s adventure in this life.  Heartfelt thanks to Eunice Kamau and Natalie Sisemore, who lovingly and tirelessly helped us care for this special man during the final years.  Roland’s family invites those wishing to honor his memory to consider donations to the Alzheimer’s Association in lieu of flowers. Roland will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his generous heart, and his deep love for his family. He leaves behind an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.  We hope you will join the family and share memories at Joe T. Garcia’s.