James Robert Armstrong, 88

James Robert Armstrong, 88, of Hendersonville died Wednesday, May 7, 2014, at his residence.

He was born January 14, 1926 in Abbeyville, S.C., to the late Joseph Burrett and Sara Palmer Armstrong. In addition to his parents James was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years Nell Fraser Armstrong; children Pat and Jimmy and a sister Emily Beck Jordon.

James served in the US Navy, during WWII on the USS Nevada during the attack on Normandy and later on the USS W.B. Cobb, retiring from the Coast Guard as Chief Petty Officer with 20 years of service. He served as a deacon of Double Branches Baptist Church in Cannon, Ga.

Survivors include his three children Joseph, Robbie and Brenda; sisters and brothers, Mary, Jeff, George, Jenora, Katie Ruth, and Sara Jo; twelve grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, and his Jack Russell terrier, Ears.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com.

Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of arrangements.