I knew Jamie a little from Southern; I met you both at new student orientation in Fall 1997, and ran into Jamie occasionally as we were both Brock Hall-ites. As a shy, new student that occasional friendliness was very encouraging, and more important to me than he could have known. Later, I helped him out a little with a painting for Strawberry Festival. I remember him mostly stalking the promenade with his video camera when he had to interview students, on sunny days after lunch, and of course no one wanted to be interviewed, so he seemed so frustrated, but always laughing--like he really thought of what he was doing as completely fascinating. Though I didn't know him well, his smile, his color, his life, and his friendliness make up an instant picture in my mind that has always defined a part of Southern to me, especially from those first couple years when I was finding my footing in a strange campus. Jennifer Williams
To the Arnall family, Jim, Sandy, Jeremy, Tina, and Erin: How inspiring it is to see your strength. Praise God for His comfort and strength, which I have seen through you all. The question has been asked, “How will this family ever survive this tragedy?” After seeing you all I know the answer, and the answer is with the strength and comfort of Jesus. I have already shared my best story with a few of you, but I thought it should be here as well for all to hear! I guess I now understand one reason why my parents never bought any sugar cereals for me, because I now do the same in my own household. But Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes has put out a 1/3 less sugar cereal so I made the exception and allowed it into the shopping cart one grocery store trip not too long ago. It was before Jamie died, the closest I can narrow it down to was on November 29th or 30th, when I opened my cereal cupboard and saw those frosted flakes I immediately thought of Jamie! Several years ago, probably 15-20 (I guess we are getting that old!) here Jamie and Jeremy sit at our breakfast table after a sleepover. Jamie was dumping sugar by the spoonfuls on our cornflakes. He’d put a scoop of sugar on them, take a bite, and then another spoonful followed by another bite and so on. My brother Dan being the “smart” one, as he still is today, finally questioned. “Jamie, you think you have enough sugar on those cornflakes?” Jamie, with his notorious “big grin” simply answered I’m trying to make them taste like Frosted Flakes.” I’m not sure that Jamie ever got those cornflakes to taste like Frosted Flakes, but we sure did have fun watching him try! Mr. And Mrs. Arnall, I want you to know I am constantly praying for you. You both played a huge role in my childhood and I am thankful I was able to grow up with such a strong family. You all had, and still have such an abundance of love and generosity how lucky I was to be able to share such positive influences throughout my younger years. Jeremy, I have such fond memories of the four of us (you and Jamie, Dan and I) growing up together. All the time we spent at each other’s homes, on the grade school playground, in the gym, and so on. There is one thing I’d like to apologize for; I know that we used to make fun of you and Jamie for dressing alike all the time! What you said in Jamie’s eulogy about you two dressing alike was an explanation we all needed to hear. How “cool” (for lack of a better word) it must have been! I am so happy to be back in touch with you, but also so sad that it took Jamie’s death to bring us back together. And above all, I am sad that I never got back in touch with Jamie. And Erin, I don’t know you, but can only imagine the type of person you are. I’m sure that Jamie made you laugh often, and I’m sure that you made him smile just as often. I have been praying for you too, I could never imagine what you are going through, but we know that God will comfort you. I love you all, Rebekah (Nunnaley) Alley
Dear Jeremy & Tina, I just learned about your website from April Nafie. It is a fabulous tribute to your brother and also to the Lord you both loved and served. I have so many wonderful memories of the years we were able to watch Jeremy and Jamie, and Tina and Tonya grow up while attending Ashville-Pisgah Church School, and Mt Pisgah Academy, where my husband served as chaplain. When you guys were finally students at the academy it was four wonderful years of activites such as Bible Conferences, Circuit-Riders, and our mission trip to Honderas. I'll never forget what a fun trip that was and how Jeremy preached his heart out at the prison in Santa Barbara, while Jamie captured it all on video. When we returned from that trip, one of my most memorable memories of Jamie was when he asked me to let him write about the mission trip for the Southern Tidings. I let him write the whole story and helped him polish it up a little and then we sent it to Ronn Quick. Jamie was so excited to see it in print! That was his first published story for the Tidings. Over the years, as I read the Southern Tidings each month, I always enjoyed reading Jamies articles that he regularly wrote for the Tidings as Communications Director for Georgia Cumberland Conference. I have always been so proud of both you and Jamie for your dedicated desire to serve as workers for the SDA church. You both married wonderful wives. We know and love Tina (and Tonya), and had just met Erin while we were at the Southern Union Departmental meeting in Daytona this past November. We crossed paths with Jamie and Erin in the hotel parking lot, and Jamie gave Stan and I both a big grin and hug and then introduced us to Erin. We talked for about 10 minutes, and during that time he shared how he met Erin at AU while visiting you at the seminary one weekend. When Stanley called me at work to tell me the awful news of the plane crash, my heart just broke into pieces. I also have a twin sister, and I can't imagine how I could live without her!! I know your wonderful parents, and I was amazed at the strength and courage they showed when we visited with them and you before Jamie's Memorial Service. The Peace that only God can give to those who love and trust in Him was evident in all of you that day. I just returned from visiting my twin for Christmas, and I know you wish desperately that you could have done the same. I know that on that glad morning when Jesus comes, He will take special joy and delight in reuniting you with Jamie. You are both special treasures in the Father's eyes. We love all of you, and keep you in our prayers as you grieve for Jamie. Valeri Knight, Charlotte, NC
Thank you for the opportunity to express my thanks for the little time I had with your brother. He was such a help to me coming into the conference and making me feel welcome. His wife is sister to a member we had in Ann Arbor, Mich. I have met her and some of the past grief she went thru. Now she faces that hurt again. It is good to know the Lord does not give us more than we can bear, but there are times when we wonder.... May the Lord continue to comfort you and your family knowing that soon you will see your brother again. Dan and Susan Hall
I was sorry to hear about Jamie. I know it is hard to lose a loved one. But I can not imagine losing a sibling much less a twin. It has been nice to see your web site about Jamie and to see how you and Tina are doing. Our prayers are with you in this hard time. Bambi (Jones) Griffin
We had the rare privilage of having Kevin Costello and Jamie in our house for Friday night supper last year. Working with Jamie in the conference helped make every office visit a delight, I could never see jaimie without seeing a giant smile and hearing a heary laugh, even when we wer dealing with very seriuos and weighty issues. The scattered conversations in various conference locations were more than enough to for me to know that Jaime had no accaintances, only a myraid of great freinds. No matter the lenght of time between conversations, he could pick up again as if no time had passed. I will never forget nor fail to appreciate getting to know and work with my friend Jamie. God Bless you Jeremy Keith N. Nelson"
As mentioned before, I will miss Jamie terribly. However, remembering how much he liked to laugh and have fun, leaves me with a host of good memories. Seeing you (because you look similiar) is just a bonus. Love Glenda
I met Jamie once when he visited Erin at work. Please tell Erin that I am praying for her and your family. Thank you for your frank reflection on the absence of Jamie in you life. Erin and I worked together in Berrien Center when she was in nursing school here at Andrews. Thank you again for passing this message on to her." "Richard Kearns"
Dear Pastor Jeremy and Tina, Thank you for sharing your innermost thoughts of your twin, Jamie...It is beautiful and insightful. We miss you here at Bowman Hills and wish you God's speed in your new church. Joanne and I along with Cynthia Brown were at the memorial service for Jamie and the others. How they each in turn will be missed. I will continue to pray for your family. Just remember, ""one day at a time"" and that is all we can do, with the Lord's help. May the Lord watch between us until Jesus comes. Jeanne Mannes
Jamie was just one month older than our youngest son. That alone made us feel close to him. He always brought joy to my heart when he was around. His smile was infectious. His love of life made me feel young and vibrant. His positive spirit made those around him happier than they had been before he arrived. He was loyal and dependable. We miss him. Carrie Evans
Dear Jeremy & Tina, I was so terribly sorry to hear about Jamie's death. I remember you from my time at Pisgah--I remember seeing two blond-headed boys in church sitting with your mom and dad--you guys were always smiling. I can't imagine how hard it must be to lose Jamie. I get tears in my eyes just thinking about it...I have no idea how I would survive if I lost my identical twin Leslie. I will continue to keep you and all your family in my prayers. Looking forward to the day when Jesus comes back and wakes up your dear brother and all is put as it should be. Much love and prayers, Nicole (Brooks) Stoner and husband Jeremy and children, Landon and Noelle; Cookeville, TN
Dear Jeremy: I do not know if you remember me, but I really wanted to say how much we have prayed for you and your family. I knew pastor Cress well, he was a memeber of the Calhoun church when I was a pastor there. I will always remember your brother for his fine gentle ways. I remember when he invited Chris Martin and me to do an audio clip for the Strawberry festival and we kept messing up and laughing, and he was so polite and considerate. I know the Collegedale Airport very well, I learned to fly there. Please know that my family (I am now married) is keeping your family in our prayers. Keep strong in the Lord. In times like this we should not ask God why? but rather when, when are you coming? our blessings to you Moises and Betty
Hi Jeremy, I ran across your page because of our common last name. I'm Eric Arnall from Missouri and I image that we are related somehow. We have several things in common. I am a pastor and I too lost a twin brother -- I was never blessed with the opportunity to get acquainted with my brother as he died during our birth, but I have always felt like he was missing from my life. I was sorry to read about your loss. I'd like to correspond and find our common ancestors. Thanks, Eric PS There is at least one other Arnall in the ministry that I know of, Frank Arnall from Cabol, Missouri. I have never met him before, but I have heard of him. Eric Arnall
Dear Jeremy & Tina, We love you dearly. You, and Jamie have been a part of our family for a long time. Then Erin was a happy addition to our family, what a wonderful blessing. God has so richly blessed us with your whole family. I praise and thank God for all of you. Though we don't understand now, some day in heaven God will reveal to us His leading in our lives. Remember when they picked up stones to stone Jesus, He said my hour is not yet come, but in the Garden when they arrested Jesus, He said My hour is now come. We don't know the future, but we know who holds the future, and we know who holds our hand. Love always, Mom,& Dad Maurice & Nancy Franks
Dear Tina & Jeremy, Our hearts are just broken for you and your family. Even though I didn't have a twin, I lost a beloved sister, and I know something of the pain you must be feeling. Just remember that Jamie died in the fight, and like the U.S. Army, we serve a Savior who promises to leave no one behind. I look forward to introducing you to my sister and meeting your brother for the first time someday very soon. We'll do our very best to proclaim the gospel in our part of the world so that the end may soon come. We love you both so much. Maranatha. Love, Jason & Stephanie Seiber
Dear Jeremy and Tina, I just now came across this page. Our deepest heartfelt thoughts are with your family. This has been sad for me to understand, but Jesus is coming soon and I know Jamie is in His hands. Marty,Marie Amber and Heather Young
Jeremy and Tina, hey guys, long time no talk. sorry to hear about your brother. growing up a little different than I shoud have I too have lost a lot of close friends. i must say it seems you take it better than me. my parents told me what happened and the only thing I could remember was playing basketball outside in grade school. you guys were so tall! maybe one day we'll meet up again. stay strong! Paul Ezekiel
Thank you for setting up this tribute to Jamie. I visit it several times a week to read what others have written and find my heart drawn to all of you. I'm having a hard time with the idea that the two of you have grown up much less the fact that Jamie’s sweet, young life on this earth has now come to such a sad and sudden end. I remember you boys as small children in and out of my house playing with Daniel “Danny” and Rebekah. It was always so great to have you around. You were always so well behaved and of course the thing that has effected everyone that you have met--- the infamous “infectious smiles” that were prevalent even when you were small children. You were and are a good mix of your Mom and Dad and it’s obvious what great parents they are because they reaped such a beautiful harvest. As you know from the times that I have spoke with you on the phone I’m having a VERY hard time saying Jeremy without Jamie. It was always Jamie and Jeremy just like a first and second name. Please forgive me I don’t know how many times I will call you “Jamie, uh, Jeremy” before I learn to say just Jeremy. I’m glad you have Tina, I’m glad that your parents have you and Tina, and I’m glad that Erin has all of you. Your strength and courage have been an inspiration to me. My love and prayers are with all of you. God bless you all!! Marlene Nunnaley
Did you go to Mount Pisgah Academey in Ashville?
yes, I did. Jamie and I grew up near Pisgah and went to school there for all 12 years.
Hey Jeremy, I decided to review Jamie's website this morning and try to get caught up on some of your thoughts and feelings. It shows how you continue your greif and how the rest of us go on our merry way. I just wanted you to know that I still think of you often. I thought of you several times on your birthday and wondered how you were doing "celebrating" your birthday without Jamie. My guess is that it was a very sad day. This is just to say I haven't forgotton that you are still hurting. Thanks for posting the picture of Tonya's Baby. It shows that life does go on. It sounds that Erin is doing all she can to heal. Hope you have a good day. Marlene Nunnaley
My thoughts of Jamie were strong this past weekend as we spent time with you, Jeremy and Tina. Almost a year has past and I still have a tear rolling down my cheek as I write this letter. I have thought often of Jamie this whole year and still the disbelief is overwhelming that he's really gone, at least in this life. I miss him very much and guess I(we) always will. I was thinking of our last weekend spent with him and remembered his jolly steps (always big and bouncy). That's something about jamie that was very different than most people. I miss his excitablility, joy of life, and love for everyone. Especially as our lives continue it will be hard esp. in the moments Jamie would have been there. Somehow the Lord has helped us through, but I long for the day and hope the Lord will put me within view of your happy reunion. That will be a moment I wouldn't want to miss, I know there will be a big sunbeam shining bright around you as it always did when the two of you were around. I have always felt it a priviledge to have you both as friends esp. when you became family. My heart and sole is with you and always will be as you are more than a brother-in-law to me, you are a brother. Love you so much, Tonya
Nov.13,2005. It will soon be a year since the tragic accident which brought a sudden end to the life of this dear young man whom we all loved and respected. During this year we have seen accounts of hundreds of thousands of deaths in storms and earthquake and senseless war, all of which tell us time is very short; Jesus will soon return in the clouds of Glory. Surely Jamie's death is not in vain. God is using this personal tragedy to awaken many to their need of a Savior. :Even so, Come, Lord Jesus!s" In the mean time, we weep and mourn with you, Jeremy; and with Jim and Sandy and the rest of the family. With our Love, Claude and Elizabeth Steen.
I still remember the first moment I heard about the crash. I just sat down and cried. I was working at Color Press, and my entire staff had come to know and appreciate working with Jamie to produce The Communique for the Georgia Cumberland Conference. The crash was a double blow, as John, the pilot, was married to my cousin Laurie. My friendship with Jamie really began at Southern, where we were classmates. As we both moved in to our professional lives, it was always a pleasure to run in to him at various church events, reminisce about college, and begin a professional business relationship. Jamie had a special eye for quality and wanted to make sure that everything he did was done well. Yet at the same time he was very pleasant to work with. It was a special combination that endeared him to our staff at Color Press. Someday, when we will all be reunited, I will look forward to Jamie's warm handshake and smile, and the chance to sit down and talk. I miss him. Submitted by Danny Houghton
What a Beautiful Website/tribute! Jamie was one of those lights that truly never goes out. All who knew him feel him in their hearts everyday. My memories of Jamie give me joy. He always made me laugh. God Bless, Heather (Truxal) Zentner