Gloria Armstrong

Gloria S. Armstrong CHESAPEAKE - Gloria Sutton Armstrong, 77, passed away Oct. 14, 2009, in her home. She was born Dec. 31, 1931, in Manns Harbor, N.C., to the late Rosa Lee and Thomas Odell Sutton. She was predeceased by her husband, Henry N. Armstrong; sister, Helon R. Armstrong, and brother, Willard R. Sutton. Left to cherish her memory are son, Thomas Armstrong and wife Kimberly of Currituck, N.C.; three daughters, Lynn Hemilright and husband Roger of Manns Harbor, Lois Alliss and husband Rick of Chesapeake and Sandra Wilkins and husband Rodney, also of Chesapeake; a sister, Rita Mann of Manns Harbor; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Gloria was a member of Kempsville Church of Christ. She loved and served the Lord with all her heart. She was a wonderful wife and mother, devoted wholly to her family. Cooking was a favorite pastime and she spent many joyful hours in the kitchen preparing delectable meals (in large quantities) that were generously shared with family and friends. Her home was always filled with mouth-watering aromas of something simmering on the stove or baking in the oven. Her crispy fried chicken, homemade biscuits, collard greens seasoned with salt pork, dumplings, and baked sweet potatoes satisfied many a palate craving good "country cookin'." Coconut, carrot, and vanilla pound cakes often beckoned from the counter.  It was her heart's delight to have everyone come together to partake of good food and fellowship. Her expertise at preserving the abundant fruit and vegetables harvested from the bountiful garden so lovingly tended by Henry, resulted in a well-stocked pantry and freezer. Gloria will long be remembered for her faith, hospitality and generosity. A funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at Kempsville Church of Christ by the Rev. Randall and Josh Childress. Burial will follow at 4 p.m. in Mount Carmel United Methodist Church Cemetery, Manns Harbor, N.C. The family will receive friends at 2360 West Road. Twiford Colonial Chapel, Chesapeake, is assisting the family with arrangements.