Clois James Arnic

Clois James Arnic was born in Caldwell County, Texas, on October 21, 1935, to Andrew and Essie Arnic. Raised in Lockhart alongside eight siblings, he grew up where family, responsibility, and resilience shaped the foundation of his life. He attended the Lockhart public schools and graduated from George Washington Carver High School, carrying forward a work ethic that would define him for decades.

After briefly serving in the United States Army, Clois returned home determined to build a life rooted in independence and skill. He worked for several companies—including National Supply—and became proficient in appliance and furniture repair, as well as radiator work. His curiosity and drive eventually led him to air conditioning repair, a field in which he found both purpose and pride. With persistence and confidence in his abilities, he launched his own business and became one of the first African-Americans to be granted a Houston Air Condition Call License (HACL #21) by the City of Houston. Arnic’s Air Conditioning Service was an achievement he held close, not for recognition, but for what it represented: determination, mastery, and the courage to forge his own path.

Clois believed deeply in helping others succeed. He mentored aspiring repairmen and small business owners, sharing hard-earned knowledge with generosity. His guidance was practical, honest, and rooted in a desire to see others stand on their own feet.

On January 22, 1960, Clois married Pinkie Mae Benson, beginning a partnership that lasted 66 years. His presence made their home a place of loyalty, laughter, and steady devotion. Clois was a committed father—protective, present, and proud of the family he and Pinkie raised. He had four children, one from a previous marriage and three with Pinkie, and he carried his responsibilities with steady, dependable strength.

Clois was a jokester with a sharp, playful sense of humor, able to bring levity to any moment. He enjoyed traveling, especially trips to casinos, where the adventure and family made the experience meaningful to him. He loved cooking and had a way of transforming recipes into something distinctly his—flavorful, creative, and memorable, shaped by the personal touches he added to every dish. Gardening was another hobby, growing a range of vegetables and fruits. His presence was warm and approachable, leaving those around him feeling at ease.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Pinkie Mae; his brothers Bobby, Andrew Jr., Ladell, and Alton; and his sisters, Valerie and Vera.

He leaves behind his children Leonard (Lisa), Winfred (Jacqueline), Roderick (Kenna), and Teffany Arnic Davenport (Michael); his grandchildren Matthew (Jacki) Jonathan, Lauren Arnic Benton (Justin), Whitney Arnic, Michael Davenport, Trevor Davenport, and Dylan Davenport; and two great-grandchildren Ryann Arnic and Ryker Arnic. He is also survived by his brother, Garlon Arnic (Hazel) and sister, Dorothy Jean Arnic Singletary, along with a wide circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were strengthened by his character, uplifted by his humor, and supported by his willingness to help.

Clois lived with conviction, generosity, and a spirit that never wavered. His legacy—built through family, commitment to helping others, and the determination to create his own way—will continue to live on in the people he loved and the lives he touched.