Henry Earl Armstrong

Henry “Earl” Armstrong, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home on October 26, 2024. He was 99 years old.

Born on August 25, 1925, in Washington, D.C., Earl was the only son of William Sheppard and Lillian Rachel (Abel) Armstrong. He was preceded in death by his beloved sisters, Doris Barrett, Gertrude Tipton and Anne Bilowus.

After the early passing of his parents, Earl spent his teenage years in Brooke, Virginia, with his paternal Aunt Clara Watson, lovingly known as “Big Momma.” Embracing the rural life of farm country, he developed a lifelong love for gardening and growing vegetables.

A graduate of Stafford High School Class of 1944, Earl proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy. Enlisting in 1943, he was stationed in Jacksonville, Florida before being honorably discharged in 1946. After his service he was employed for over 30 years as a machinist with the Naval Sea Systems Command at the Washington Navy Yard in D.C.

A defining moment in his life came at a New Year’s Eve party in 1957, where he met Mary Ellen Beck, the love of his life. They married a year later on January 10, 1959 and together built a life grounded in love, faith and family. In 1984, Earl completed religious instruction to convert to Catholicism, and he and Mary renewed their wedding vows at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in celebration of their 25th anniversary. Just this past January they celebrated 65 years of marriage—a testament to their enduring devotion.

Earl was known for his kindness, generosity and his love of life’s simple pleasures. Whether tending to his garden, enjoying a round of golf, or solving a crossword puzzle, he approached life with humor, warmth and an open heart.

He is survived by his children, Henry "Hank" Armstrong, Jr. (Patty), Christine Long, Catherine Goodman, George Armstrong, Mary Ann Day and David Armstrong (Leslie) along with nine grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed to have known him. Earl’s life was a gift to those around him, and his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in his memory to Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 4902 Berwyn Road, College Park, Maryland 20740.