Biography: A Time To Be Born…
Horace Armstrong, also known as “Killer” or as some folks called him “Killer Joe”, the son of the late James and Sarah McClary Armstrong was born on October 2, 1924 in Long Creek, North Carolina. Horace was the youngest son of the Armstrong Tribe which consisted of twelve sisters and brothers: Viola, Kathy, James Jr., Thomas Jefferson, Beulah, Booker T., Odessa, Lerona, Orion, Horace, Doris and Colene.
A Time To Live…
Horace attended Long Creek Grady Public School along with his brothers and sisters. Horace enjoyed working in the field with his father and followed his dad around wherever he went. Horace entered into the Army during World War II and shared stories of when his commanding officer allowed him to build a financial building while in Saipan, Japan and his boxing matches while in the military. Horace earned several medals including the WWII Victory Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Sea Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.
A Time To Love…
Horace was raised to know God’s love and teachings. Following his honorable discharge from the army, Horace moved to New York City where he met and married his wife Louise. Through that marriage he had five beautiful children: Horace Lee, Linda, Akbar, Stewart and Sharon. Horace loved to socialize and host parties, dance and cook for his family. He was known for carving and displaying food well on platters.
A Time For Work…
Horace worked for the City of New York; first for the New York City Housing Authority and then later at the New York Sanitation Department. He retired from New York City Sanitation in 1985 and enjoyed helping others as needed. He would lay floors, paint, assemble items and or furniture or anything to keep his mind and body busy until he was unable to do so anymore. Horace became a member of St. Lukes AME Church in 1993 and was a member of Class #26. He served as an Usher for the Peter J. Lance Usher Board for several years until his health declined.
A Time to Die…
Horace, also known as “Killer Joe” transitioned into God’s hands on July 22, 2019 at 7:26PM. He is now in Heaven with his wife “Weezy”, son Horace Lee, daughter Linda and all of his other family and friends that have ushered him through the gates of heaven. He will always be remembered a man of strength, standards and a man who was steadfast.
A Time To Mourn…
Horace leaves behind to cherish: two sons, Akbar and Stewart; daughter, Sharon; son-in-law, Tracy; one sister, Colene of Long Creek, North Carolina; Grandchildren: De’Alleashea, Sabreen also known as Hafiza, Arnold, Phanesse, Erika, Chanel, Rahimah, Yasmin, Cassidy and a host of other family members—grandchildren, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, in-laws and many friends. He also leaves behind caretakers during his decline, Eleanor and Jermaine.
Until Then
Although you had to leave us; This has made us sad.
You went to live with Jesus; In our hearts we are so glad.
We will carry on with life lessons; The way you showed us to be.
We will keep the faith and love; And see you in eternity.
—The Family—