Ruth Armstrong

She was born on March 6, 1924, to Clarence Homer and Editha Mabel (Russell) Wilson, in Duncan, Oklahoma. She graduated from Duncan High School in 1942. She married Jack James Armstrong July 21, 1942, at Lubbock, Texas. She lived in Frederick for a short time with her parents during World War II while her husband was overseas. After the war, her husband attended Kansas City Dental School and eventually they moved to Wichita to open his dental practice. She attended Wichita State University graduating Cum Laude and then the University of Kansas where she received her Master's in Social Work in 1971. Among numerous special recognitions she received during her career in social work, she received the VA Hearts and Hands Award and was named Federally Employed Kansas Woman of the Year in 1982. Mrs. Armstrong spent her life helping others, working for the Veterans Administration Medical Center for 20 years, followed by a number of years working for the Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice in Wichita, Kansas. She lived her life with a strong commitment to what she believed, that we are truly our brother's keeper and that wherever there is someone in need there is an opportunity for kindness. She cherished time spent with close friends, loved all God's creatures, enjoyed listening to and playing music (she played piano and organ), and flower gardening, but most of all she loved her children whose lives were deeply blessed by her presence. She was a devoted and beloved Mother, a special friend to many and an inspiration for all who knew her. Her gentle strength and love will forever live in our heartswe will miss you Mom, more than words could ever express. She is survived by her five children: James Craig Armstrong of Kansas, Larry Keith Armstrong (Yoshiko) of Hawaii, Jay Thomas Armstrong (Shearly) of Kansas, Jon Randall Armstrong (Sue) of Wisconsin, and Dixie Ann Armstrong Butz (Mike) of Ohio; one brother: Lloyd (Billie) Wilson of Colorado; 14 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.