The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation joins the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and the Rufus H. Duncan Unit in mourning the loss of Correctional Officer Randy Glenn Arnold, who passed away on December 20, 2025, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. He was 52 years old.

Randy was born on February 10, 1973, in Lufkin, Texas, and remained a lifelong resident of the community he loved. For 18 years, he served as a Correctional Officer with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, dedicating nearly two decades of his life to protecting the public and supporting his fellow officers.

Behind the uniform was a man who loved deeply and lived fully. Randy was known as the Astros’ #1 fan and found joy in baseball, golf, UFC fights, fishing, nature walks, and a good cup of black Starbucks coffee. More than anything, he cherished time spent with his family. He loved the Lord and was a faithful member of Timber Creek Church.

Randy leaves behind his beloved wife, Esmeralda “Mera” Arnold; his children, Kristan, Kylie, Cade, Kaden, Angel, and Omar; and his grandchildren, Landyn, Casen, Nathaniel, and Valentine, who is on the way. He is also survived by his parents, siblings, extended family, and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his son, Cason Collinsworth, and his grandparents.

Funeral services were held on December 26, 2025, in Lufkin, with interment following at Largent Cemetery. As his family, friends, and fellow officers gathered to say goodbye, they did so honoring a man who served with dedication and lived with heart.

The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation stands beside Officer Arnold’s family, friends, and colleagues during this time of grief. When a member of our correctional family is lost, we are reminded that service extends far beyond the walls of an institution — and that the impact of that service reaches generations.

Please keep the Arnold family in your thoughts and prayers.

This is what it means to honor our own.

This is what it means to Take Care of Our Own.