Nathaniel Alan Arnold

Nathaniel Alan Arnold was born on December 3, 2001 in Yuma, Arizona. Nathan was the only son to Suzanne Kersten, and the sweet baby brother to his three sisters. His energy and love for those around him was contagious. He was the life of the party, announcing his presence any time he entered a room, and bringing laughter and joy to those in it. Nathan loved so very deeply – he made everyone feel like they were his best friend, the only person who mattered. He had a beautiful singing voice, filling the hearts of so many with song and his flair for drama. If there was a stage, Nathan wanted to be on it; if there was a camera, he was in front of it. Nathan attended Gila Ridge High School in Yuma, lighting up the stage as a part of their Hawkapella Choir and the drama club. He had the opportunity to perform locally, often featured as a soloist, as well as to travel and perform multiple times for the United States Armed Forces.

When he was 15 years old, Nathan moved to New Orleans. Here, a brand new world was opened to him. It was in New Orleans that Nathan truly felt accepted and free to embrace fully who he was. He loved finding unique clothes at local thrift stores – his “I Make 50 Look Good” shirt is one of everyone’s favorites. He celebrated Mardi Gras in true fashion, dressing in wild costumes and colorful beads. Nathan graduated from Riverdale High School in May 2019 and started attending college at the University of New Orleans. He had plans to teach theater, but whatever had come his way, Nathan would have done it with his whole heart.

Nathan departed this world on June 26, 2020. He is survived by his mother, Suzanne Mary Kersten (New Orleans, LA); his sister, Amanda Richelle Karistai and Daniel Karistai (New Orleans, LA); sister Katrina Marie Arnold and Greg Cooper, along with nieces Grace Marie and Kallie Lynn, and nephew Mason Alan (Yuma, AZ); sister Rebecca Arlene Arnold and Chris Diz, and niece Aliyah Grace (New Orleans, LA); as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

An intimate gathering of family and friends took place on July 2, 2020 at Greenwood Funeral Home. Donations will be made in Nathan’s honor to a collection of New Orleans charities we think embody Nathan’s bright spirit, his passion, and his love of others. If you’d like to make a donation in Nathan’s name, please visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/nathan-arnold-memorial
 

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