Theodore Roosevelt "Ted" Armstrong Jr.

1936 - 2026

Theodore 'Ted' Roosevelt Armstrong Jr.
Born: August 24, 1936
Died: March 25, 2026
Theodore "Ted" Roosevelt Armstrong Jr., age 89, of Reddick, IL, passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee, IL.
Born August 24, 1936 on the family farm, Ted was the son of Theodore R. Armstrong Sr. and Evelyn (née Swartz) Armstrong. Farming was not just his occupation, but the life he knew and loved. He spent his entire life working the land around Reddick, dedicating himself to the demanding work of agriculture. Known for his strong work ethic and steady presence, Ted was the kind of farmer who understood that a day's work began before sunrise and often ended well after the sun went down.
In addition to tending his fields, Ted also enjoyed custom farming and corn shelling and was always willing to lend a hand when neighbors or friends needed help. He was a talented woodworker and took pride in working with his hands, whether in the shop or out on the farm. Those who knew him remember a man who was dependable, humble, and always ready to help others.
Though he worked hard, Ted also appreciated life's simple pleasures. He loved a good cup of coffee and had a well-known fondness for Nutty Buddies and cheese balls. Time with family was especially important to him. He married Marian Patchett on February, 28, 1976 and together raised her children as their own, a responsibility he carried with strength, dedication, and quiet determination. He was very proud of his family and cherished the time he spent with them as they grew. He also enjoyed traveling and looked forward to spending winters in Florida.
On January 29, 2010, Ted married Carol DeChant, and together they shared the later years of his life. He was a member of the Methodist faith.
Ted is survived by his loving wife, Carol Armstrong; his devoted children, Gary (Linda) Emling of Dwight, IL, Marla Raymond of Bradley, IL, Cindy (Vic) Graham of Weatherford, TX, Nina (Jim) Gill of Bourbonnais, IL, Belinda (Dave) Whitman of Dwight, IL, Bill (Annette) Patchett of Odell, IL, and Melissa Anne DeChant of Reddick. His legacy continues through his 11 cherished grandchildren and 22 beloved great-grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and joy and were a constant reminder of the family he worked so hard to provide for.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Wayne Armstrong, Jean Webster, and Carolyn Webster; and his wife of 31 years, Marian Armstrong.
Per Ted's wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. A graveside service will be held Friday, April 3, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Braceville-Gardner Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to R.W. Patterson Funeral Home & Crematory in Braidwood, IL.
Ted will be remembered as a hardworking farmer, a devoted father and family man, and someone whose life was rooted in the land and the family he loved.
R.W. Patterson Funeral Home & Crematory
401 E. Main St., Braidwood, 815-458-2336
www.rwpattersonfuneralhomes.com