Robert “Bob” Jonathan Arowood
Robert “Bob” Jonathan Arowood, 61, of Clinton passed away peacefully Sept. 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and close friends.
Born July 20, 1965, to William H. and Bobbie Arowood, Bob was a lifelong resident of Anderson County and a member of First Baptist Church in Clinton. In the summer of 1984, he met his devoted and loving wife, Karen Arowood, at the Fourth of July fireworks, beginning a life together that would span more than four decades.
Bob was widely known for his remarkable career as an entrepreneur and business leader, but his greatest source of pride was always his family. Bob and Karen built a life together that remained at the center of everything he did. Their son, Reid, was one of the greatest joys of Bob’s life, and the three shared an exceptionally close bond. Whether traveling together, celebrating milestones, sharing meals or simply spending time at home, Bob was happiest when he was with his family.
Selfless and extraordinarily generous, Bob instinctively took care of the people around him. He supported his family, friends, employees and community, often quietly and without expecting anything in return. Throughout his life and career, Bob built more than businesses — he built lasting relationships. He never met a stranger and had a natural ability to connect with people, making those around him feel welcome, valued and cared for.
Bob’s career in insurance began while he was still in high school, working at his family’s small insurance agency in Clinton. Over the decades that followed, he helped transform that family business into a nationally recognized insurance enterprise. His many accomplishments, awards and achievements reflected an extraordinary career, yet Bob never sought attention or recognition for his success. He remained deeply committed to Anderson County, keeping his business headquartered close to home and creating hundreds of jobs in the community where he grew up.
For all that Bob accomplished, he cherished life’s simple pleasures most: quiet evenings on his back porch overlooking the Clinch River, grilling for family and friends, and simply being at home surrounded by the people he loved. Bob was well known for his sweet tooth. He loved turning dessert, ice cream or a favorite treat into an excuse to gather, celebrate or simply make someone’s day a little better.
He also had a lifelong love for his beagles, including Roxy Nicole, who preceded him in death, and his beloved rescue beagles, Ruby Ann and Lily Bell, who brought him constant joy and companionship.
Above all else, Bob was a devoted husband and father. Of everything he built and accomplished throughout his life, nothing meant more to him than the life he shared with Karen and Reid. His greatest legacy is not measured by what he built, but by the love he gave so freely and the people whose lives were made better because he was part of them. Bob will be deeply missed, but the love, laughter, friendships and memories he created will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Bob was preceded in death by his grandparents, Carl and Enid Arrowood and Archie and Arbree Peterson; father-in-law, Bobby G. Utley; beloved beagle, Roxy Nicole; and other loved ones who will be remembered fondly.
He is survived by his wife, Karen Arowood; son, Reid Arowood; parents, William H. and Bobbie Arowood; brother, William M. Arowood and wife, Robin; nephew, Chad Arowood; uncle, John Arrowood; mother-in-law, Wanda Sue Utley; brother-in-law, Brad Utley; nephews, Carson and Carter Utley; niece, Camryn Utley; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
A private service will be held for the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Bob’s memory to one or both of the following:
SOS Beagles — Tennessee
Online donations may be made at https://www.paypal.com/US/fundraiser/charity/21995.
UT Medical Center — Stephens Cancer Care Fund
Online donations may be made at https://www.utmedical.org/give-now, under “I would like to support,” select “Other” and enter “Stephens Fund.”
Gifts may also be mailed to:
Office of Philanthropy
2121 Medical Center Way, Suite 110
Knoxville, TN 37920
Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of arrangements. holleygamble.com
