Mr. Herman "Donnie" Arbuthnot

Mr. Herman “Donnie” Arbuthnot, passed away on July 20, 2026, at Kansas City Hospice House. Herman Darnell “Donnie” Arbuthnot was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on September 29, 1953, to Elijah and Ida Arbuthnot. Herman attended Richardson Elementary School in Kansas City before continuing his education at Westport High School. He later attended Missouri Valley College in Marshall, Missouri, where he formed a lifelong friendship with his best friend, Ronnie Brooks. Throughout his career, Herman worked in a variety of roles throughout the Kansas City area. After college, he began working at the Jackson County Juvenile Center. He later joined the North Kansas City School District before concluding his career at Sprint, where he retired in 2014. Herman’s faith was an important part of his life. He was a charter member of Redemption Church of God in Christ, where his cousin, the late Pastor Thuston Packnett, Sr., served as pastor. Herman faithfully served the congregation in many capacities, including as former Chairman of the Trustee Board. Prior to becoming a member of Redemption Church of God in Christ, he was a faithful member of Greater Holy Temple Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Bishop C. N. Rucker. Known affectionately as Donnie, Hulkson, and Roscoe—Roscoe being Ethel’s favorite nickname for him—Herman was considered the patriarch among the first cousins of the Cason family. That cherished role now passes to his cousin, Paul Cardell Mikell of Mississippi. Herman had a smooth, unmistakable voice that everyone recognized the moment he began to speak. Combined with his warm smile, quick wit, and gentle spirit, he had a way of making people feel welcome and at ease. Whether he was sharing a story, cheering on his favorite team, or enjoying a game of dominoes with family and friends, Herman made every moment memorable. Family was at the center of Herman’s life. He was a devoted husband, a loving stepfather to Michelle, and a proud uncle and godfather. He deeply loved his family, especially his stepdaughter, niece, nephew, great-nieces, great-nephews, and extended family. One of his greatest joys was being able to hold his great-great-nephew in his arms before his passing. To those who knew him best, Herman was the undisputed king of dominoes and bid whist. He was a devoted fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, the Oklahoma City Thunder, and the Kansas City Royals. He loved traveling, trying new restaurants—especially because he jokingly said his wife didn’t like to cook—enjoying a glass of Rémy Martin with a good cigar, spending time with his beloved dog, Jackson, and watching movies. Above all, he treasured the love and companionship he shared with his wife and best friend, Ethel. Herman was preceded in death by his father, Elijah Arbuthnot; his mother, Ida Arbuthnot; and his beloved sister, Dorothy Jean. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife and best friend, Ethel Johnson Arbuthnot, who has loved him faithfully since July 3, 1978, and who will love him always and forever; his beloved stepdaughter, Michelle T. Johnson (“Chelle”); his beloved nephew, Raphael Arbuthnot (“Tony”); his beloved niece, Jeron “Trice” Marshall; along with their families; his cherished godchildren, Jaiden Goode, Wyatt Tinnen, and Jordyn Goode; his loving cousins throughout Missouri, Mississippi, and Illinois; his church family; and a host of dear friends from Richardson Elementary School, Westport High School, Missouri Valley College, Sprint, and the Kansas City community. If Herman could leave one final message, it would simply be: “I’ll see you on the other side.” Rest in Peace, Herman. Your smooth voice, infectious laughter, unwavering faith, and enduring love have left an indelible mark on every life you touched. Though you are no longer with us in body, your legacy will live on forever in the hearts of your family, friends, and all who were blessed to know you. Memorial Services will be held on Saturday August 8, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Redemption Ministries COGIC 8120 Holmes Road KCMO 64131. Private Disposition. Visitation: 10:45 - 1145 a.m. at the Church. Arrangements entrusted to Lawrence A. Jones Funeral Homes & Cremation. Condolences may be shared on our website lawrenceajones.com.

Mr. Herman "Donnie" Arbuthnot

September 29, 1953 - July 20, 2026