Robert Van Clief Armstrong

Robert Van Clief Armstrong, age 90, of Salisbury, Maryland, died Monday, October 3rd, 2022 at home with his wife by his side. Born May 26th, 1932, in Sussex, New Jersey he was the son of the late Robert Van Clief Armstrong Jr. and the late Ruth Hamilton (Weidenhamer) Armstrong.

Bob was descended from a respected dairy farming family from Sussex County, New Jersey, and was a direct descendant of Major Thomas Moore Armstrong, who served in the American Revolutionary War. Bob’s early school years were spent in a one room schoolhouse, followed by attending Sussex High School, and then Rutgers University College of Agriculture. Bob was active in dairy farming activities during his youth and careers; as a 4-H member and leader, as president of the Frankford Dairy Club, as an honoree from the New Jersey Guernsey Breeders Association. In addition, he raised Seeing Eye dogs on behalf of the Seeing Eye, Inc association. Bob finished out his dairy career in Talbot County, Maryland, where he shared his love of water activities with his family. During retirement, Bob and Carolyn enjoyed living on the bay, catching fresh crabs from their dock, and traveling as well.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Carolyn Adelaide (Nugent) Armstrong; along with three children; Robin Armstrong of Snow Hill, Maryland, Bronson Armstrong of Marshall, Virginia, and Scott Armstrong of Falls Church, Virginia. Bob has three siblings, Ellen Proctor, Hugh Armstrong, and the late Margaret Bigger. He is also survived by five grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and many loving nieces, nephews, and relatives.

The graveside memorial service for close friends and family will be held on July 15th 2023 at 10:30am at the Armstrong family plot at the Branchville Cemetery in Branchville, New Jersey. A gathering to celebrate Bob’s life will follow directly afterwards at the Smith-McCracken Funeral Home in Newton, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to be sent to either: IFYE Association of the USA, Inc., https://ifyeusa.org/ways-to-give/memorial-honor.html or Coastal Hospice, https://www.coastalhospice.org/make-a-donation.

Online condolences may be offered below.