Michael Thomas Armstead's Obituary
Michael Thomas Armstead, age 80, peacefully entered eternal rest after a life marked by service and skill. Born on February 18, 1945, to Andrew Valdosta Armstead and Gertrude Armstead, Michael grew up in Lancaster, Texas, where he completed his education and carried the values of hard work which shaped his life.
In 1966, Michael answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Army. He proudly served until 1971, achieving the rank of Sergeant. On June 6, 1969, he married Helen J. Traylor, which was a 50-year union, until her departure in 2020 to meet our Lord and Savior. After completing his military service, Michael continued his commitment to serving others through a long and steady career with the National Postal Service, where he later retired. He joined the Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church in June of 1980 where he served in the Ushers Ministry.
Michael was a man who could turn a wrench. His love for racing cars was more than a hobby — it was his joy, his craft, and his way of staying connected to the thrill of speed. If he wasn’t under a hood or tuning an engine, you’d likely find him at the Yellow Belly Speedway, eyes lit up like a kid again. And on quieter nights, he was perfectly content watching wrestling on TV, yelling and screaming like the matches were happening right in his living room.
He leaves behind a loving family who will miss him deeply: one sister, Mary Jo Allen; two brothers, Will Armstead and Tyrone Armstead (Regina); and a host of nieces and nephews — with a special place in his heart for his niece, Ms. Glennis Newton (Paul). He also leaves behind other relatives and friends who were blessed by his presence.
Michael is preceded in death by his beloved spouse, Helen Jean Armstead; his parents, Andrew Valdosta Armstead and Gertrude Armstead; his sister, Ada Quaite; his brothers, Billy Edward Armstead and Willie Fred Armstead; and nephews Donald Quaite and Billy Joe Allen Jr.
Michael lived a life of bold strength, and simple pleasures. He was truly an acquired taste, and he was ok with that. Those who knew him will remember his love of a good game of Spades or Bid Whist, and his passion for fast engines. His memory will continue to race in the hearts of those who loved him.
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