Obituary of Phillip Francis Patrick Armstrong

   Phillip Francis Patrick Armstrong, 87, died peacefully at Hampton Ridge, Toms River in the early morning hours of May 11, 2017 with much of his family by his side, as they have been for several months.  Phillip was born in Seaside Heights on August 25, 1929 to James and Mary Armstrong.
  

   Phillip served in the US Army and Navy, receiving an honorable discharge from both.  He went on to receive a Bachelor of Science in Education from West Chester State Teachers College, followed by a Master of Arts in Education from Trenton State College (as it was then known).  His career was spent as a teacher and administrator, and he was particularly kind to underprivileged children.
  

    Phillip was a jazz lover, voracious reader, crossword puzzle solver, avid Duke basketball, Boston Red Sox baseball and Notre Dame football fan.  He also played basketball in the evenings when his children were younger, and later won awards as a senior softball player.
  

    He was married to the love of his life, Helen, on November 19, 1960.  After retiring from education, Phillip spent many joyous years as a vocal entertainer in a trio with Helen by his side.  Phillip also spent many dedicated years as a lector and Eucharistic Minister at St. Catharine of Siena Church in Seaside Park.
  

   Phillip is survived by his children, Mary Armstrong, Cathy Armstrong Frank, Phillip and Jocelyn Armstrong, Robert and Michelle Armstrong, Francis and Dana Armstrong, Jeanette and Kenneth Turner, James and Heather Armstrong; his grandchildren, Ben, Andrea, Robbie, Leah, PJ, Jonny, Kiley, Krista, Grace, Robert, Jerry, Christopher, Tommy, Keira and Eileen.
   Phillip was predeceased by his wife, Helen, twin sons, his parents and three brothers, James, John and Charles.
  

   A Memorial Mass will be offered Tuesday, May 16th at 10 a.m. at St. Catharine of Siena Church, Seaside Park.  Inurnment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Toms River.  In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the charity at St. Catharine Cares, 50 E St. Seaside Park, NJ 08752.