William "Willie" David Armstrong

William "Willie" David Armstrong, cherished husband, father, and grandfather, died unexpectedly and peacefully at his home and into the loving arms of his savior Jesus Christ, on December 9, 2024, at the age of 70.

Willie was born on August 13, 1954, in Fort Hood, Texas, to the late William Lee and Francis Virginia Thompson Armstrong. Growing up in a military family, Willie moved frequently during his early years, but at the age of 12, the Armstrong family settled in Warner Robins, Georgia. It was there that Willie attended Northside High School, where he was an accomplished athlete, starting on both the football and basketball teams. He graduated in 1972, and shortly thereafter, he followed in his father’s footsteps by joining the United States Army. As an officer, Willie served his country with distinction for three years, working as a test control officer for the Army and Air Force Exchange Service.

After his military service, Willie began a successful career as a Sales Representative for National Bank Products, where he worked for 43 years. During his tenure, Willie earned numerous awards for his dedication and exceptional customer service. His clients held him in high regard, and he developed many long-lasting relationships that continued throughout his career. Willie was a man of unmatched generosity, kindness, and integrity.

He was a true family man, attending every sporting event for his children and being a constant source of love and support. Willie was especially fond of his granddaughter, whom she lovingly called "Wee Wee," and his adoration for her was evident to all who knew him.

At the age of 12, Willie met Kathy, the love of his life, when he first saw her leaning against a locker at school. They began dating in high school, and after a brief time apart, they married at the age of 21, beginning a beautiful 47-year journey together filled with love, laughter, and memories. Their relationship was one built on a foundation of mutual respect, devotion, and unwavering commitment.

Willie was a passionate fan of the University of Georgia, closely following Georgia Football, keeping track of recruits, stats, and every game. He was also a member of Harvest Church, where he participated in the men's group and found great joy in being part of a community of faith. He loved spending time at the beach and pool, as well as enjoying his favorite hobbies, which included gardening, yard work, and listening to southern rock music.

Willie’s warm heart, gentle nature, and infectious smile will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was truly a "gentle giant" whose love for his family, friends, and all those he encountered made the world a better place.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings, Rebecca Stokes, Roger Armstrong, and Sherry Robinson. 

Willie’s memory will forever be treasured by his loving wife Kathy Hattaway Armstrong; sons, William Justin Armstrong of Sharpsburg, Georgia and David Branden Armstrong of Minneapolis, Minnesota; grandchildren, Nevan Armstrong and Abigail Armstrong; siblings, Molly Young (Jeff) of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Phillip Armstrong of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Ginger Goff (Harry) of Byron, Georgia, and Janet Goodson (Henry) of Gray, Georgia; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

The family will greet friends during a visitation on Thursday, December 12, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., at McCullough Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held immediately following in the chapel. Afterward, Willie will be laid to rest in Magnolia Park Cemetery.

The family will accept flowers or donations may be given in memory of William “Willie” Armstrong to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by visiting https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?homepagedonate. 

For friends unable to attend at this time, the service will be streamed live at https://www.youtube.com/@McCulloughFuneralHome via the McCullough Funeral Home’s YouTube page.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.