Stephen Joseph Arning

Stephen Joseph “Steve” Arning, 65, passed away on August 20, 2026, at home in Huntsville, Texas, just six days shy of his 66th birthday. Steve spent his final days in the comfort of home, surrounded by love and cared for by those who meant the most to him.

Steve was born on August 26, 1960, in Centralia, Illinois, to Lou George and Richard Arning. He later made his way to Willis, Texas, with his family, where he spent more than 20 years of his life building a home, raising his family, working hard, and creating memories that will last for generations.

Throughout his career, Steve worked laying and installing telephone lines for Sprint, CenturyLink, and other companies as names changed through mergers over the years. He was a hardworking man who rarely knew how to sit still and was happiest when he had somewhere to go, something to work on, or someone who needed his help.

One of Steve’s greatest passions was sprint car racing. In his earlier years, he could often be found behind the wheel of his familiar 27S. Gator Motorplex in Willis held a special place in his heart, and many of Steve’s lifelong friendships began through the racing community.

In his later years, Steve enjoyed fishing, traveling, and exploring Texas. One of his goals was to visit every state park in Texas. He was also an avid Texas A&M football fan and made sure he had ESPN so he never had to miss watching his Aggies play. He particularly enjoyed giving his daughter-in-law, Lacy, a hard time about being a Dallas Cowboys fan.

Steve was stubborn, strong-willed, protective, hardworking, and loving. He may not always have been a man of many emotional words, but he showed his love through his actions. When his family needed him, Steve was there. He loved fiercely, showed up without hesitation, and would do whatever he could for the people he loved.

When Steve became ill in February, his former wife, Stacey, lovingly helped care for him. Although they had been divorced for fourteen years, she remained by his side during his illness and helped ensure he was comfortable, cared for, and surrounded by love.

Steve was preceded in death by his mother, Lou George; his father, Richard Arning; and his sister, Cara Edwards.

He leaves behind his children, Brandi Harding and her wife, Lacy; Amanda Arning; and Dalton Neal and his wife, Danielle; his grandchildren, Bryson, Brent, and Teagan; his great-grandchild; his sisters, Becky Bealor and her husband, Bo, and Marti Pollard; his brother, Corey George; his former wife and devoted caregiver, Stacey; and many treasured friends and members of the racing community who became family throughout the years.

Steve will be remembered as a hardworking man, a racer, an adventurer, a loyal friend, and, above all else, a father and grandfather who always showed up for the people he loved.

Anytime we called, Dad was there.

There will be no traditional funeral service. Steve’s family will take this time simply to grieve and miss him. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, when his family is ready to gather with those who loved him and share the stories, laughter, friendships, and memories that made Steve’s life so special. Details will be shared with family and friends at that time.