Richard Alan Armstrong

Richard Alan Armstrong, 70, beloved husband, father, grandpa, brother and friend died on September 10, 2023, surrounded by his family after a courageous 14 month battle with cancer. He was born March 31, 1953 in Columbus, Ohio to parents Harry and Lois Armstrong.

After graduation from Shawnee High School in Lima Ohio he attended the University of Tennessee. He interrupted his studies to serve a 2 year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in California. Upon returning to the university he earned his degree from the School of Architecture. He received his official architectural license on September 27, 1980.

He met his wife, Barb, while attending the University of Tennessee. They were married in the Washington DC Temple on March 16, 1977. They raised 3 beautiful children. The love he gave to his family will be forever remembered and felt in their hearts.

He spent the bulk of his career (30 years) working for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He retired as the Worldwide Director of Temple Facilities. He traveled all over the world in this capacity. He deeply loved the temples and all they represent.

After retirement he served a church service mission with Barb. Together they served at the Bishop’s Storehouse in Layton Utah. Additionally, he served a 3 1/2 year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints acting as the church’s spokesman to governmental entities regarding emergency communications.

He had many hobbies including hiking, fishing, woodworking, ham radio, family history, camping, and collecting and journaling with fountain pens. Some of his favorite adventures were with his twin brother (Steve Armstrong), including many fly-in fishing trips to Canada, hiking the Appalachian Trail, and backpacking in the mountains of Utah.

Rich was dearly loved by all who knew him. He was known for his positive outlook on life, his sense of humor, his love of and service to his family and friends, and his commitment to God and the principles of the gospel.

Rich is survived by his wife, Barb; their three children, Austin, Sally (Joseph Baird), and Jennie; 7 beautiful grandchildren Reese Baird, Kate Baird, Mark Baird, Ruby Baird, Morgan Morris, Benjamin Armstrong, Logan Armstrong; his twin brother Steve Armstrong (Debbie Armstrong), his sister Christine Gardener (Jim Gardener); and his mother Lois Reighter.

Funeral services will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 1285 South 2500 West, Syracuse, UT 84075 on Saturday, September 16th at 10:00 am. The chapel will open at 9:30 a.m.  A “Celebration of Life” viewing will be held at Russon Mortuary on Friday, September 15th from 6:00-8:00 pm.

For those who are unable to attend the service in person, it will be LIVE streamed.  The live stream will start 5-10 mins prior to the service and can be accessed below.