Kevin Leonard Armstrong

Kevin Leonard Armstrong, age 63, of New Hope, ran through the gates of heaven and straight into the loving arms of his Savior and Heavenly Father on Monday, March 31, 2025.

He was born March 19, 1962 in Staunton, a son of Benny Welton Armstrong of Churchville and the late Nancy Lee (Siron) Armstrong.

Kevin was raised on a farm in McDowell, where he learned the true meaning of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice which he embodied in everything that he would go on to accomplish in life. He graduated from Highland High School in 1980 and went on to serve our beautiful country in the US Navy. Kevin was very proud of his 8+ years of service and truly cherished both the lessons learned and the lifelong relationships that he developed while on the submarines USS Olympia and NR1. He completed Nuclear Power School with ease, which was no surprise because Kevin was always known for his intelligence and incredible wit.

On September 1, 1990, Kevin married Gail McCormick and they started their life together in South Carolina. They were married nearly 35 years at his passing, and their marriage was a true testament of unconditional love. Kevin worked as an Industrial Electrician for over 14 years for Michelin until the two of them relocated their family back to Virginia where he spent the last 21 years working for Target Distribution Center. He was recognized countless times for his incredible leadership and teamwork amongst his peers.

Always community-minded, Kevin enjoyed coaching many little league sports teams, spending time traveling the world with friends and family, teaching Sunday School, lending a hand to help his neighbors, and was well known as a man who could “fix anything.” He was looking forward to continuing his adventures with his four grandchildren. Above all, he will be remembered as a steadfast provider to his family, and for his caring heart and generous spirit.

As well as his mother, Nancy, predeceased family members include several aunts and uncles who had a lasting impact on Kevin, helping to make him the man he had become.

In addition to his wife and father, surviving family members include his two daughters, Kylie Wooddell and husband, Brandon of Mount Sidney, and Abigail Mize and husband, Jake of Chapin, South Carolina; his beloved grandchildren, Easton and Lainey Wooddell and John Luke and Shepherd Mize; brothers, David Armstrong and Julie Wales of Churchville, and Jim Armstrong of Swoope; step-sisters, Nina Armstrong and Connie Fink; as well as his special aunts, Betty Beverage and Nellie Armstrong; father and mother-in-law, Charles and Carolyn McCormick of Williamsville; sister and brother-in-law, Tammy and Jay Gallimore of Waynesboro; as well as their children, Hunter, Melody, and Forrest.

A memorial service celebrating Kevin’s life will be held at 4pm, Sunday, April 6, 2025 at St. Paul’s Church in Staunton, with Pastor Ryan Oswald officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church and at other times at the home of Kevin and Gail.

Memorial contributions may be made to McKendree Methodist Church Cemetery, c/o Sandy Botkin, 215 Doe Hill Road, McDowell, Va. 24458, where his mother was laid to rest.