Obituaries

Robert Walter Armstrong of Newport News passed away peacefully on Friday, February 28, 2025, at the age of 93. Bob, or “Pop” as he was known to his family, was born September 18, 1931, in Waynesboro, Virginia.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 68 years, Nancy S. Armstrong, parents Thomas C. Armstrong Sr. and Viola H. Armstrong, and brothers Thomas C. Armstrong, Jr. and Lawrence W. Armstrong. He is survived by his sons John R. “Bobby” Armstrong and his wife Susan of Surry, Virginia, and Michael P. Armstrong and his wife Jennifer of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. He is also survived by his grandchildren Andy Armstrong of Richmond, Kate Smith(Todd) of Hampton, and Liz Beier (Daniel) of Newport News, and great-grandchildren Abby, Leslie, and Caroline Armstrong, Alex Smith, and Laura and Matthew Beier.

Bob was a graduate of Newport News High School, Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School, and a U.S. Navy veteran. He retired from Newport News Shipbuilding as a Design Supervisor after forty-one years of service.

Bob was an accomplished woodworker and artist. He enjoyed spending time in his workshop creating furniture, birdhouses, and beautiful bowls that he turned from tree logs, most of which he generously donated and gifted to friends and family. He loved fishing and traveling with Nancy to her favorite slot machine establishments. He was a loving caregiver to Nancy in her later years and loved his family unconditionally.

We will miss you, Pop.

A special thank you to the staff at Mennowood Retirement Community for their loving care and comfort during his last years.
Bob will be laid to rest beside his wife, Nancy, in a private service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital at: http://events.stjude.org/Robert_Armstrong
Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601