Esther Luella Armstrong

Esther Luella Riggs Armstrong was born on March 23, 1924, in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. She was the eldest of six daughters in the family of Aaron and Mabel (Baker) Riggs. Esther passed away at the age of 102 on March 26, 2026, leaving behind a loving family. She is survived by her four children: Theresa Armstrong of Princeton, Keith Armstrong and his wife Sarah of Princeton, Kim Woods and her husband Mike of Princeton, and Mark Armstrong of Owensville. Her legacy also includes three granddaughters: Dr. Kendra Armstrong of Princeton, Susannah Rogers of Antigo, Wisconsin, and Janessa Downey and her husband Mike of Mesa, Arizona. Esther was blessed with great granddaughters, Colleen and Audrey Rogers of Antigo, Wisconsin. She is also survived by her sisters, Sharon Fauquher of Ft. Branch and Patricia Ready of Princeton, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Esther was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Harold Armstrong who passed away in 2010, her sister Monzell Brown in 2012, Honar Mae Tate in 2025, and her baby sister Bernice Riggs in 1937.

Esther graduated from Princeton High School and began working at Hansen Manufacturing. She met Harold K. Armstrong at the Rural Youth Club, and the two married in the United Presbyterian Church on September 22, 1945. After their wedding, they moved to a farm near Owensville and spent almost 65 years together as husband and wife.

Esther and Harold shared a passion for travel, visiting 49 states throughout their lives. For their 50th wedding anniversary, they journeyed to Alaska. The couple also spent many warm months in Florida, enjoying the sunshine and relaxation for several years.

Esther was active in her community as a Sunday School teacher and took part in numerous artistic activities, including quilting, china painting, and wood carving. She led a Girl Scout Troop and contributed to 4-H when her children were young. Esther had a fondness for collecting and restoring antique furniture, as well as gathering antique dolls and toys.

Graveside services for Esther will be held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at David Smith (Bethel) Cemetery in Owensville at 10:00 a.m., with Pastor Kevin Wilson officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Boys and Girls Club. Expressions of sympathy can be shared at stodghillfuneralhome.com.