Karen Armstrong

Karen Sue Armstrong, 66, went home to be with her Lord on September 14, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Karen was born on June 8, 1957, in Independence, Missouri. Her parents were Stanley Gunn Roche and Ruth VanWestrienen Roche.

Karen graduated from Shawnee Mission North High School. She married her high school sweetheart John Armstrong in Fairway, Kansas on December 30, 1977. Their love story began nearly 50 years ago when they ventured out on their first date on November 6, 1973. They were blessed with five children. Daughters Amy, Katy, and Wendy and sons Johnny and Joe(y).

Karen absolutely loved being a stay-at-home mom, having a house full of children and friends, and a nightly crowded dinner table. She enjoyed oil painting and was a connoisseur of old movies. Karen was a dedicated Sunday school teacher for over 35 years, Girl Scout troop leader for many years, and a Birthright volunteer for 33 years.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents. Karen is survived by her husband John Armstrong, sons Johnny and Joe Armstrong, daughters Amy (Glenn) Hocking, Katy (Chris) Hydock, and Wendy (Sean) McCarthy, siblings William Roche, Genine Chambers, Sue Winters, and Roy Moree. Grandchildren Beatrice and Finn Hocking, Desmond and Rowan McCarthy, and Hudson Hydock.

A visitation service will be held Tuesday, September 19, from 9:30-11:00 a.m., and a Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Community Church, 1100 Kasold Drive, Lawrence, Kansas. A private graveside burial service is to be held immediately after at Oak Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Women's Insight Center and sent in care of Lawrence Chapel Oaks Cremation & Funeral Services, 627 Monterey Way, Lawrence, Kansas 66049.