Christopher John Arnold

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Christopher John Arnold (46) of Fort Mill, S.C., on Sunday, April 27, 2025. Chris was a beloved father, husband, papa, coach, friend, son, and brother.

Chris is survived by his wife of 24 years, Kristy McManus-Arnold, his beloved children, Madison Arnold Faris (Coleman), Christopher John Arnold Jr, Payton Arnold, and Grandson Bennet Faris. Parents William and Deborah Arnold, brother Billy Arnold (MiOk). In-laws Robert and Judy McManus, Sister-In-law Heather Coulston(Tony), and niece Molly Coulston. Also preceded in death by his sister Victoria Arnold.

Coach Chris wasn’t just a coach—he was a true pillar of the Carolina Angels program, pouring his heart into it for so many years. His passion for the game, his players, and the Angels organization was unmatched. Having come from the same program, we know firsthand how much he believed in developing not just great athletes, but great people. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he had for this game.-Team NC Yates.

Coach… a word most of us admittedly take for granted. Chris Arnold was a man who exemplified the definition of the word “coach.” We have known him for hardly more than a year. Yet he has had more of an impact on our daughter than most will probably have on her in a lifetime. He not only believed in her, but he also brought out the best in her. She loved him, and she loved playing for him. He will forever be the standard for us as a coach. The pain we experience is nothing compared to the loss and pain his family has experienced. The loss of a husband, a dad, a grandfather. We, however, share in this grief. Rest easy, good friend. My only regret is that I didn't get to know you more. We all look forward to the day we all play softball again with you in the sky.--The Hatfield’s

Coach Chris- Our hearts are beyond broken after hearing the news that you are no longer with us. As Parents of one of your players, we were always so thankful for all of the lessons you taught her, not only on the field but off the field as well. You were such a good Husband, Father, Grandfather, coach, and friend. Your lessons and your legacy will forever live on in the hearts and minds of so many young women that you coached and shared your love and passion for softball with. Thank you, Coach Chris, for pouring so much of your time, energy, and love into each and every kid and for making manners, forgiveness, honesty, teamwork, kindness, friendship, and grades more important than what ANY scoreboard would say. These young people (from ages 12 to early twenties) will carry your lessons with them forever. Please know that this is not goodbye, this is NOT the final game in the tournament. We will all see you again one day. Please save all of your “kids” a place on your team up there and save all of us parents the best seats! Until then….we (players and parents alike) will miss you. I can’t wait to watch the big game one day. We love you! Love, Your former players and Parents. --The Johnson's

Coach Chris, I am so thankful to have had you in my life! You were like my second dad. You made such a difference in my life. I remember I almost quit softball until I found you and the Carolina Angels. I will forever have the memories of you coaching all of us and in practice telling me, “rainbows don't belong on the softball field, they only belong in fairytales and lucky charms”. You will never be forgotten and will forever be in our hearts--Love Sophia #8 #carolinaangelstrong

Coach Chris, I am so blessed to have had you in my life for so long. When I first started travel ball, I was so scared of this new transition in my life. Was I going to be able to compete? Was I going to be good enough? You put all those fears away and brought out the best player not only in me but in all of us. I was blessed with the opportunity to play for you, coach with you, and be loved by you just like you loved all your girls. You were such a light in everyone’s life that you touched, and we will carry on that light with us forever. The lessons you taught me and all your players will never be forgotten. You taught us all the importance of being "dinner conversation". Something I will always strive to be every day. We will miss your wisdom, your smile, your laugh, and just the incredible you every single day. You may be gone, but you will never be forgotten. You are our softball family, and that is a special bond that lasts forever. You will forever be our angel, Coach Chris. Keep your arm warmed up in Heaven, we will be ready to play when we meet again. -Love Kennedy Johnson #1

Visitation will be Sunday, May 4, 2025, from 2-4 PM at Palmetto Funeral Home in Fort Mill, S.C.. In honor of Chris, the family asks that you wear purple to celebrate his love for the Carolina Angels. In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to the Carolina Angels-Kristy Arnold at Family Trust Credit Union.