Joe Nixon Armstrong

Joe Nixon Armstrong passed away on Tuesday, November 19, 2024. He was born in Springfield on October 28, 1951 to the late James and Jean Nixon Armstrong. 

He graduated from Springfield High School, where he played football and basketball. He then attended Austin Peay State University and proudly served in the Army National Guard. As a younger man he enjoyed playing on a men’s softball league, bowling, golfing, and playing pool. Joe was an avid musician. From rock, to country, to gospel, and praise and worship, he always belonged to a band throughout his life. He was a lifelong member of Bethlehem Baptist Church. There he played bass guitar alongside some of his dearest lifelong friends in the praise and worship band for many years until his passing. He was a master carpenter by trade and raised cattle on the family’s beloved Maple Bluff Farm. He enjoyed fishing at Sulphur Fork Creek, and in more recent years he could often be found fishing at Wartrace Lake. Joe will be fondly remembered by all who knew him as unapologetically being his own man, exemplified keeping his faith in God in the face of adversity, and fiercely loving the Lord and his family. 

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Jamie Armstrong Swann. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Jane Smalling Armstrong of 42 years. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his three children: Lana (Jose) Armstrong Miguez, Molly Armstrong, and Ross (Miriam) Armstrong and six grandchildren. His cherished grandchildren include: Eden, Isla, Makyla, Jamey, Boone, and Jackson; they affectionately referred to him as “Gandy”. He is also survived by his brother, Bob (Beverly) Armstrong and nephews, Derek Armstrong and John Armstrong whom he dearly loved. He will be greatly missed by many dear cousins and friends.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 4:00 PM at Bethlehem Baptist Church. The family will receive friends on Sunday at 2:00 PM until the time of service.

Please visit Joe's tribute wall and share a memory with the family.