Gary Francis Armstrong

Gary Francis Armstrong, age 69, of Surgoinsville, won his battle with cancer at home, Tuesday, January, 16 2018. Holding hands with his wife of almost 30 years, he slipped peacefully into endless sleep and in to the hands of God. Gary had a love for simple things: milking his cows by hand, savoring their milk and sharing it with treasured friends and family. His heart felt crushed to give up Gracie, his latest cow, but his weakened shoulder refused to carry the heavy buckets of milk any further. He would go the extra mile for someone in need, and never saw a stranger. Working in a variety of positions, nothing was so dear to his heart than farming the land and feeding his cows and horses. Educated in Surgoinsville schools, he also looked forward to attending church weekly at Surgoinsville First Free Will Baptist Church. "Boy" his canine buddy, continues to wait for his master's voice and touch. Preceding him in death were parents, James Charles and Thelma Porter Armstrong; brother, Randy Armstrong; grandparents, Clint and Cora Barrett Armstrong and David and Ada Belle Artrip Porter; in-laws, Herman and Edna Gatewood; brothers-in-law, Earl Gatewood and Pat Blair. Surviving are his wife, Nadine; son, Dean; grandsons, Cody, Cameron and Caleb Armstrong; step-daughters, Sherry Hutchins and Robin Wilson (John); step-grandchildren, Jackson, Lily and Parker Wilson; sisters-in-law, Charlotte Blair and Diane Gatewood; and a host of friends. The family will receive friends from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at Carter-Trent Funeral Home in Church Hill. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 pm with Pastor Jesse Hartgrove officiating. Burial will follow in the Armstrong Cemetery with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Carter-Trent Funeral Home in Church Hill is proudly serving the Armstrong family.