Obituary: Arthur C. LaRochelle

Arthur C. LaRochelle, at 76

Arthur C. LaRochelle, 76, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026, at HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital in Brooksville, Florida, surrounded by his loving family. 

Arthur was a devoted husband and is survived by his loving wife, best friend, and partner of 53 years, Jeanne LaRochelle, of both Massachusetts and Florida.

Born at Fort Dix and raised in Hull, Arthur lived and worked in Hull for most of his life. He was the son of the late Joseph A. L. LaRochelle and Carol LaRochelle. Arthur was a graduate of Hull High School, Class of 1969, before proudly joining the United States Army, serving with the 756th Engineer Battalion.

Arthur served for over 20 years in the U.S. Army and was a Vietnam War veteran. He was honorably discharged with the rank of sergeant and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Army Commendation Medal. Following his military service, Arthur returned home and dedicated more than 30 years to the Hull School Department before retiring.

A man of many passions and full of life, Arthur was loved and respected by many. He had a deep love for westerns, enjoyed reading, and valued the simple pleasures of life.

His warmth, humor, and steady presence left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Arthur was preceded in death by his brothers Bobby and Ernest, and his sisters Joanne, Bonny, and Lisa.

In addition to his wife, Jeanne, Arthur is survived by his children: Lori Arbit and her husband, Ken, and their son Ethan, of Georgia; Mikhaela LaRochelle and her children Dominic Hernandez and Shawna Hernandez of Massachusetts; and Jennifer Costello and her husband, Martin, and their children Riley Costello, Thomas Costello, and his great-grandchild, Mia, of Florida. Arthur was a proud “Papa” to his grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy.

Visiting hours and a service were held on Friday, February 20, at Downing Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Spring Hill, Florida.

If you wish to send cards, flowers, or share your condolences, the family welcomes your gestures of support and remembrance. You can also sign the ebook at www.downingfuneralhomeandcremation.com/listings.