Charles W. Armstrong, Sr.

Charles W. Armstrong, Sr., a cherished resident of Cherokee County, GA, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2024, at the age of 92. Born on December 29, 1931, in Washington, D.C., Charles lived a life filled with service, love, and dedication to his family, friends, and community.

Charles graduated from Washington Lee High School and continued his education at military prep school, which laid the foundation for his disciplined and determined nature. He proudly served his country as a torpedoman in the U.S. Navy, embodying the values of honor and courage.

A longtime member of the Rivermont Golf and Country Club and the Atlanta Classic Foundation, Charles was an avid golfer and a passionate PGA Tour Golf Volunteer. His love for the sport was matched only by his enthusiasm for the camaraderie it brought. His career as an executive in the automotive industry spanned 35 years with the Buick Division of General Motors, from 1956 to 1991, where he made significant contributions and formed lasting friendships. In his earlier years, Charles was also a lifeguard at the Army Navy Country Club, a role that highlighted his commitment to service and safety.

Charles was a man of faith, attending Episcopal services and living by the values of kindness, support, and community. His family will forever remember him as a “100% pure badass”—a man who brought strength, safety, and pride into their lives. He was always there to support his grandchildren’s endeavors and was known as a good neighbor, always willing to lend a hand and volunteer in the community.

His greatest joy came from family gatherings, often held at his daughter Jennifer’s house, where birthdays, holidays, or simply the joy of being together were celebrated. Charles loved the tradition of celebrating the Fourth of July at the beach, enjoying the parade, a day in the sun, and a cookout with those he loved most.

Charles was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Eloise L. Armstrong; his mother, Mary Elizabeth Warner; his father, Charles W. Armstrong; his stepfather, Norman P. Warner; and his daughter-in-law, Terri Armstrong. He is survived by his sons, Charles W. Armstrong, Jr., and Kenneth D. Armstrong (Laura); his daughter, Jennifer L. Zielinski (Mark); his grandchildren, Philip Armstrong, Sarah A. Cowan (Holton), Jordan Zielinski, Jake Zielinski, Christopher Armstrong, and Michelle Armstrong; and his great-granddaughter, Lily Cowan.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 1:30 PM at Arlington Memorial Park, 201 Mt. Vernon Hwy, Sandy Springs, GA. Charles’s legacy of love, strength, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.