David, who lived in Lewes, has been writing The County Yarns page in the Sussex Express for many years.
Lewes FC, of whom he was a long-time supporter and volunteer, have paid tribute to him.
The said: “The Club are devastated to hear of the passing of David Arnold, a long-time supporter and volunteer.
“Alongside his wife Barbara, David began volunteering at the club in 1998 and from that point, the two of them became the very heart of the club and its community.
“Warm, knowledgeable and immensely funny, David was a key part of keeping the club afloat during its transition to community ownership in the late 2000's.
“David was Chair of our Supporters Club for many years and in that time, not only help raise many tens of thousands of pounds for the club but also gave thousands of hours of his time and generosity.
“Will we miss him deeply and will be celebrating his life and memory at our game this Saturday.”
We will be sharing his final County Yarns column, written shortly before he died, in next week’s Sussex Express.