Rev. James Ross Armstrong, 77 of Valparaiso, went to be with our Lord Wednesday, August 31, 2022. He was born April 3, 1945 in Chester, PA to the late Francis G. and Elizabeth (Ross) Armstrong. Jim graduated from Oxford High School and earned his degree from Philadelphia College of Bible. He began his ministry at Allentown Mennonite Church, continued to Mill Run Mennonite Church during which time he was also the chaplain at Penn State University - Altoona Campus, and his last church he served was the Valparaiso Mennonite Church. His ministry never stopped, working at Porter Starke Services, serving as on-call chaplain for Porter Hospital, working and volunteering at New Creation Men’s Center, and serving on the board for Christian Community Action. Jim enjoyed reading, running, gardening, the beach, and watching ballgames. He loved his family and was very proud of his children and grandchildren.
On January 10, 1970 in Schroon Lake, NY, Jim married the love of his life, Linda Sayward who survives along with his children, Jason (Deb) Armstrong and Kristi (Steven) Kacmarik; grandchildren, Jared, Mikaela, Logan, Aiden, and Liana; siblings, Carolyn Ammouri, Francis G. “Bud” (Lorraine) Armstrong, and Robert (Geneva) Armstrong; and many nieces and nephews.
Memorial Visitation will be held Sunday, September 4, 2022 from 2:00-4:00 PM at Crossing Community Church 1305 Silhavy Rd., Valparaiso with a Celebration of Life beginning at 4:00 PM. Private Family graveside will take place at Angelcrest Cemetery, Valparaiso. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to New Creation Men’s Center, Valparaiso. Click here to watch the recorded Funeral Service and Video Tribute.
GUESTBOOK
We treasured our friendship with Jim and you. -Rick & Michele Brigham
We are so so sad to hear of the passing of Jim from your lives, Linda and family, friends and all who knew this great man. Dave and I will miss not having a chance to see Jim and you Linda visiting us here together. Our prayers are with you during this hard time in your life, Linda and family. Praying for you to have peace of mind in the days to come. We are sure you have great memories towels you through those hardest times. God bless you. -Candy Clemens
Lifting your family in prayer to our Lord. -From Matt, Alexis and Gloria Gage
We were blessed to become part of your family when Steve married Kristi. Our times together created so many fond memories. Jim spent his life helping others and guiding them to the Lord. Now may he rest in the arms of his Saviour. - Paul & Mary Ruth Kacmarik
Dear Armstrong Family, I am deeply pained and saddened to learn about the death of beloved Rev. Jim. My heartfelt condolences to you and to your family. I can absolutely imagine the overwhelming pain and loss that your family is facing. Rev. Jim was a man of wisdom and his devotion to his family, community, and Church was admirable. His valuable words and precious thoughts will be ever etched in hearts of anyone who knew him. His presence always added color and positivity to any environment even when he would sit peacefully in service. Please know I'm am praying for you always. -Pastor DeShawna Neal - Duneland Community Church
