Robert D. Armstrong

Robert D. Armstrong, 89 of Cranston, born in Providence, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025, at The Village at Waterman Lake in Greenville, RI. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, whose legacy will forever be held dear by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Robert dedicated 47 years of his life to the business world, where he served as both founder and president, beginning with Armstrong Industries before moving on to Design Fabricators. Throughout his career, he cultivated a work environment that was more like a family than a workplace, treating his employees with kindness and respect, embodying the values of loyalty and camaraderie.

He found immense joy in spending quality time with his beloved wife, Margaret “Peggy” (Lyons) Armstrong, and their family in Rhode Island as well as at their cherished home in Ft. Myers, Florida. Robert was known fondly as “Grampy” to his grandchildren, with whom he loved to make lasting memories. His legacy continues through his daughters, Roberta “Robin” Degraide and her husband Keith, and Denise Armstrong-Florio and her husband Peter. Additionally, he leaves behind his adored grandchildren: Jillian Pullano and her husband Scott, Bryan Rotondo, Alexis Florio, Jeffrey Degraide, and Kayleigh Cousineau and her husband David, along with his great-grandchildren: Luca Pullano, Viviana Pullano, Ryan Degraide, Riley Degraide, Lydia Cousineau, and David Cousineau: and his dear siblings Walter Armstrong, and Debra Garzone.

He joins his deceased family members, including his father, Henry B. Armstrong; mother, Ann M. (Coletti) Armstrong; son, Thomas B. Armstrong; and siblings: Henry B. Armstrong Jr. and Audrey Dominques, who will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who remain.

Beyond his professional life, Robert was a man of passion and interests. He was an avid sports fan, watching the Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics, and Bruins with fervor. His commitment to Providence College was evident as a season ticket holder for PC Friars Basketball. Furthermore, he left an indelible mark on his community, coaching baseball and girls' softball for many years in Cranston, offering guidance and support while helping to shape young athletes’ lives. As a proud member of the Alpine Country Club, he found joy in golfing, relishing the camaraderie and outdoor beauty that came with each round.

Robert’s military service as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army stands as a testament to his dedication and strong sense of duty to his country. He exemplified leadership, integrity, and selflessness throughout his life.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at The Village at Waterman Lake in Greenville for their care and compassion during this challenging time.

VISITING HOURS will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Nardolillo Funeral Home & Crematory, 1278 Park Avenue in Cranston. His Funeral will follow on Monday, September 15, 2025, at 8:45 AM from the Funeral Home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM in Holy Apostles Church in Cranston.  Burial will take place in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. (www.stjude.org/memorial)

Robert D. Armstrong will be remembered as a devoted family man whose love knew no bounds, a leader in business, and a dedicated community member whose spirit will continue to inspire us all. His memory will live on in the hearts of many.