Philip Armstrong

Philip Alexander Nikolas Armstrong died peacefully on October 24, 2025, surrounded by his family at Ohio’s Hospice Inpatient Facility in Columbus, Ohio. Philip is survived by his spouse, Laura Lisbon and their two sons, Nikolas (born 2000) and Keir (born 2005). He is also survived by his beloved sister Caroline Whaley, her spouse Timothy Whaley, and his mother Alison Armstrong, in addition to multiple aunts, uncles, and cousins. Philip is predeceased by his father, Nikolas Armstrong. Philip was born in London, England on January 23, 1962. His primary education began at Eastbourne College, followed by Manchester College, Oxford for post-secondary education. Philip was an outstanding sportsman, in particular playing cricket at an extremely high level throughout his school years including playing for Oxford University Cricket Club and England’s national team. He continued his education in the US and Paris, ultimately earning his Ph.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles in History of Art. Philip and Laura were married in 1998 after meeting professionally in Paris through their shared work in the arts. Joining Laura in Columbus, Philip was hired by The Ohio State University to teach in the Department of Comparative Studies where he spent twenty-seven years, becoming Chair of the Department for four years before retiring in 2025. Philip has published internationally in contemporary visual arts and culture, as well as essays on contemporary political theory in both French and English. He loved his students and colleagues dearly. Philip also loved to spend time in the Finger Lakes region of New York State with his family, and to visit family and friends in England and beyond. In 2024, Philip was diagnosed with the uncurable disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) also known as Motor Neuron Disease (MND). He will forever be remembered as a loving and devoted spouse, father, brother, son, brother in-law, colleague, and friend for his generosity of spirit, sharp wit, and infinite kindness. There are no funeral services, but a celebration of life is planned for 2026.

Memorial donations may be made to ALS United Ohio , 1170 Old Henderson Rd., Ste. 221, Columbus OH 43220. Memorial donations may also be made to Ohio’s Hospice, 7575 Paragon Rd., Dayton, OH 45459.