Michael Armstrong became absent from his body and present with Our Lord on August 19, 2026, in Rock Hill, South Carolina, at age 69. He was the second son of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred C. and Julia K. Armstrong of Fort Mill, SC. Michael graduated from Fort Mill High School in June 1976. In March 1979, he enlisted in the United States Army and served honorably for nearly eight years, separating in February 1987. During his military service, he achieved the rank of Food Service Specialist (94B20), a role he held for seven years and eleven months.

Michael’s formal military training, as a Food Service Specialist (94B20), encompassed 170 hours of instruction and prepared him to five validated civilian career pathways in the Culinary Profession. After Basic Training in Fort Dix, New Jersey and before serving abroad he qualified as an expert marksman. Michael accumulated three years and five months of foreign service as a Mess Hall Supervisor. While assigned not only to the NATO’s USAG in Schweinfurt Germany but also, USAG in Wiesbaden Germany.

However, when not feeding the troops, Michael’s extraordinary heroic tenors and a mighty bass vocal launched him to performing in many of Europe’s premiere Opera Venues. Michael could sing not only in English but also in French, Italian, and German. Thus, demonstrating his commitment to his country and his willingness to musically serve beyond American borders. For his final duty assignment Michael served in the 43rd Air Detachment before his separation at Fort Jackson, South Carolina.

Following his military service, Michael brought his “Iron Chef” expertise and dedication to civilian life as a Culinary Curator/ Head Chef at Holiday Inn of Rock Hill. In this role, he led kitchen operations, supervised culinary staff, and maintained rigorous standards for food preparation, plating, and sanitation. He also collaborated with hotel leadership, events, and concierge teams to create bespoke culinary experiences and coordinated catering for corporate and social events. Beyond his professional responsibilities, Michael managed vendor relationships, controlled food costs, and mentored team members, thereby fostering a culture of professionalism and hospitality in every kitchen where he worked. But yet, he also enjoyed singing and winning numerous weekend Karaoke Competitions all throughout South Carolina. However, with so much going for Michael’ life, something was missing.

One day, in 2010, Pastor Ken Watson, of Rock Hill Bible Fellowship, personally invited Michael to attend the Church. After some hesitation he finally attended. At his first visit, he had found a true Church filled with dynamic Gospel Preaching, Teaching, Missions and Sacred Hospitality. His commitment to his Lord and his Church Family extended far beyond Sunday worship. Michael participated in seven mission trips to Jamaica with his church, bringing both his Biblical Teaching, Training and Evangelical gifting skills. He was deeply involved in community outreach, including an afternoon school program that served at-risk youth in the Rock Hill area. Those who knew him remembered his kind heart, his adventurous spirit, and the smile that seemed never to leave his face. Michael Armstrong lived a life of service—first to his country, then to his community and his church, and always with generosity of spirit. He was known for his kind heart, his adventurous nature, and the genuine warmth he brought to everyone he met.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, Alfred B. Armstrong. He is survived by his Aunts Alma Strait of Fort Mill SC. and Elizabeth Kiser and Uncle James Bailey of Brooklyn, NY. Senior Cousins Elect Lady Miss Dorothy Lee White Armstrong and Rev. Mary Loretta Adams English of Fort Mill and Mary Hall of Maryland. He is survived by four sisters, Vanessa Edwards (Phil), Rachel A. Titus, Angel Armstrong of Rock Hill and Julia A. Hauser of Syracuse, New York. He will be missed by the countless lives he touched through his service, his faith, and his unfailing generosity.