Datrice Yvette Armstrong

Datrice Armstrong, lovingly known as "Treesa," "Auntie," "Mema," and "Momma was born on February 27, 1964, in Montgomery, AL, to Pearl Armstrong and Thornton Rudolph. Datrice was a beacon of strength, love, and joy who touched countless lives through her kindness, warmth, and unwavering devotion to her family.
Datrice was a proud graduate of Spring Valley High School in Spring Valley, NY, where she excelled athletically, playing on the girls' basketball team helping them to win a championship. Her dedication to personal growth continued as she pursued higher education, earning her associate's degree while pregnant with her youngest child, Ty'Mare. The pride she felt in that moment, surrounded by family, remains an enduring memory of her resilience and determination.
She dedicated more than 25 years to serving others through her work at the Rockland County Department of Social Services and for a period of time, the U.S. Postal Service. Her commitment and excellence earned her the admiration of colleagues and friends alike. Looking forward to retirement in the coming years, Datrice had planned to relocate to North Carolina to spend more time with her family, particularly her grandchildren, embracing her role as their anchor and inspiration.
Datrice's zest for life was evident in everything she did. Whether fishing, cooking her legendary carrot cake, dirty rice, and shish kabobs, or traveling on cruises, attending concerts, and capturing memories in photos, she approached every activity with joy and passion. She was known for her radiant, contagious smile, heartfelt laugh and generosity, which could brighten the darkest day. Her love for family was immeasurable, expressed in the little things, such as sending cards for every occasion, and in the big moments, like fiercely protecting and supporting her loved ones.
Her favorite songs, including Mary J. Blige's "Just Fine" and Debbie Boone's "You Light Up My Life," perfectly captured her vibrant and loving spirit. She was known for her signature phrases like "Errrrr hellerrr?!," "I'm just rockin' my jaws," "(Ya) gots to be more careful," and the ever-familiar "YOUUUUUUUUUUU!"-expressions that will forever bring smiles to those who knew her.
Even in moments of challenge, Datrice demonstrated remarkable courage and strength. Her journey to over 30 years of sobriety was a testament to her willpower and determination. She showed her children and grandchildren what it meant to face life's challenges head-on.
Datrice departed this life on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the age of 61.
She was preceded in death by her mother Pearl Posey, her father Thornton Rudolph, her beloved daughter LaShanda Renee Armstrong, her grandchildren Landen, Lance and Laianna Pierre, and her beloved son, Leonard "Lenny" Charles Armstrong, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond.
Her legacy lives on through her children: Darice Armstrong of Rocky Mount, NC, and Ty'Mare Armstrong of Middletown, NY; her grandchildren: Lashaun Armstrong, Truly Turner, Aamir Armstrong-Miranda, Amina Armstrong-Miranda, Laii'Den Armstrong, Gianni Armstrong, Aniylah Armstrong, Reginald "RJ" Primus Jr., Harmon'ii Armstrong, Kaius Coles, and Omari Coles; and her brother, Cedric S. Armstrong Sr. (Linda) of Rock Hill, SC. She is also survived by her niece, Ashleigh Armstrong; her nephew, Cedric "CJ" Armstrong Jr.; her sister-friend since early childhood, Angela Gilliam; and a host of extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.
Datrice was so much more than her roles as a mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend. She was a true example of strength, love, and perseverance. Her memory will continue to light up our lives, and her legacy of love will forever be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her.