Gary Armstrong

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Gary Rex Armstrong,

Diamond, Missouri

11/21/1949 – 7/20/2020

Gary died during heart bypass surgery at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, MO. 

He was born in Carthage, MO to Rex and Lucille Kathleen (Carrick) Armstrong, who have both passed. 

He is survived by one brother, Jack Armstrong and his wife, Linda, who live in Highlands Ranch, CO. 

Gary graduated from Diamond High School in 1967 and Missouri Southern State University in 1971. Gary was taken to Jefferson City, MO when Christopher “Kit” Bond was elected Governor in 1972, by James Spradling of Carthage, MO. 

Bond appointed Spradling Director of Revenue for the State of Missouri. Spradling put Gary in charge of the Motor Vehicle Division at age 23. He may be the youngest ever to hold that position. 

In 1977, Gary and his wife, Anita Voss Armstrong moved to Kansas City where he went to work for 3M Corporation. In 2003, he moved back from St. Paul, MN to Diamond and retired at age 54. 

Gary became active in the local city government for a period of time. He enjoyed playing golf with his friend, John Perkins. Gary had also served in the Missouri National Guard.

Graveside services will be 1:00 pm, Friday, July 31, 2020 at Diamond Cemetery. Contributions in Gary’s honor may be made to American Heart Association, c/o Clark Funeral Home, PO Box 66; Neosho, MO 64850.