Rose Armstrong

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Rose Mary Armstrong, the beloved matriarch of our family. Rose Mary was born on May 15, 1945, in Eldorado, Arkansas, to the late Major Bluford Jr. and Oicelean Bowman Bluford.

Rose accepted Christ at an early age. She, along with her younger sisters and Betty Gilmore, formed a gospel singing group called "The Davis Sisters." They performed at many local churches, cherishing the joy it brought them. Rose attended Washington High School, where she met her high school sweetheart, Willie B. Armstrong. They united in Holy Matrimony at a young age, and their love lasted for forty-five years until Willie's passing. Together, they traveled the world as Willie served in the United States Army, living in various countries. They were blessed with two beautiful children: Willie Bernard and Laurie Ann.

Rose Mary worked for over 20 years at Big Springs Nursing Home in Denver, Colorado, and another 20 years at Huntsville Homecare Healthcare. After more than two decades of living in Denver and Huntsville, Rose moved back to El Dorado to be with her daughter after the passing of her husband. The entire family was overjoyed to have her home once again.

Rose had a special bond with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. If you knew "Sista," you knew she loved to cook, listen to blues, and play cards with the family. She was outspoken and never hesitated to speak her mind. Rose cherished spending time with her sisters, whom we lovingly called the "Golden Girls." If you saw one, the others were never far behind. With her warm heart, she always made sure to welcome anyone into her home.

Rose Mary is survived by her sister Betty Bluford; her daughter Laurie Waller (Greg); her aunt Ellen Jackson; her grandchildren Ashley Moore (Tre'manta), Jeffery Armstrong (Zhivonne), Roderick Armstrong, Gregory Waller (Brittany); her niece Tina Bluford; 11 great-grandchildren; and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Willie B. Armstrong; her brother, Major Bluford III; her sisters, Evette Cox and Shirley Waller; her son, Willie Bernard Armstrong; and her special niece and nephew, Valeria Carr and Tony Cox.