Obituary of Robert Armstrong

Robert Paul Armstrong, Sr., was born in Laurens, SC, on May 13, 1920. One of 10 children, he was the son of the late James Robert Armstrong and the late Maggie Sue Phillips Armstrong, also of Laurens. Mr. Armstrong passed away peacefully at his home in Irmo, SC, on Wednesday, January 18, 2012, at the wonderful age of 91. Mr. Armstrong, more often known as ?Bob? or ?Papa Bob?, was a much loved husband, father, and grandfather ? as well as a renowned educator, and student of life. After graduating Laurens High School, he served his country and remained a proud veteran of WWII. He then earned a Bachelor Degree in Education from Presbyterian College, later obtaining his Master of Education from Furman University. Bob also completed significant requirements toward a PhD in Special Education, from the University of Georgia, prior to accepting a permanent position as a Special Education Consultant with the SC Department of Education, in Columbia. Bob?s 33-year education career included positions as Principal of Macedonia High School, in Moncks Corner and Honea Path High School, in the upstate. For all who knew Bob Armstrong, there was little doubt he was a heart-felt Christian, as he loved the Lord with all his heart. Bob was especially known for his sincere and eloquent prayer life, gifted with an easy dialog, and resounding, yet humble voice. Throughout his life, he was a dedicated servant within his church community, contributing as a Methodist Lay Witness Mission Leader, Sunday School teacher, Usher and Board Member ? while participating in his later years as an Agape Sunday School class & church member at Riverland Hills Baptist Church. During his professional career, he dedicated countless hours toward the improvement of special education opportunities within South Carolina schools, working diligently through local community efforts, such as the Babcock Center and Easter Seals Society. He was a lifetime member of the Lions Club, and served as an AARP volunteer, providing free tax preparation service to senior citizens. Mr. Armstrong is survived by his wife and love of 65 years, Ruby Craig Armstrong. Other surviving family members include his children: Robert P. Armstrong, Jr. (Gail); Colonel J. Craig Armstrong (Doris); Pamela Armstrong Plemmons (Mark); and Margaret Armstrong Tonkin; along with his grandchildren: Ashley Sustrich (JAS), Amber Tonkin, Erin Armstrong, Jordan Tonkin, Anna Armstrong, Eden Armstrong, Brandon Plemmons, and Haley Plemmons; and his great grandson, MJ. He is also survived by his sister, Mrs. Frances Armstrong Rohr (Harold), of Massillon, Ohio. The family would like to thank Mr. Armstrong?s many care givers including those at the Presbyterian Community of Columbia and Harmony Care Hospice. Your gentle care was an answer to prayer. A visitation will be held Friday, January 20, 2012 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Greenlawn Funeral Home in Columbia. Services to celebrate the life of Bob Armstrong will be Saturday, January 21, 2012 at 2:00 p.m., at Riverland Hills Baptist Church in Irmo. Entombment will follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park Mausoleum in Columbia. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Carolina Children?s Home. On-line condolences may be sent to www.greenlawn-columbia.com. The family has entrusted Greenlawn Funeral Home with the arrangements.