News Summary
Robert Armstrong, a key member of the Cranston business community, peacefully passed away at 89, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to family and business. He founded Armstrong Industries and Design Fabricators. Known for nurturing a supportive workplace, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, leaving a lasting impact on his loved ones and the community. A passionate sports fan, Robert was also actively involved in local youth sports programs.
Cranston, RI – Robert Armstrong, a prominent figure in the Cranston business community, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025, at the age of 89. His death occurred at The Village at Waterman Lake in Greenville, Rhode Island, leaving behind a legacy of business leadership and family devotion.
Born in Providence, Robert dedicated 47 years to the business sector. He founded and served as president of Armstrong Industries and later of Design Fabricators, both notable companies in their respective fields. Robert was known for fostering a work environment filled with kindness, respect, and loyalty, which earned him the admiration of employees and colleagues alike.
Robert was a family man who enjoyed quality time with his beloved wife, Margaret “Peggy” (Lyons) Armstrong, and their family. The couple frequently spent time at their home in Ft. Myers, Florida, as well as in Rhode Island. Known affectionately as “Grampy,” he was dedicated to creating lasting memories with his grandchildren, who included Jillian Pullano and her husband Scott, Bryan Rotondo, Alexis Florio, Jeffrey Degraide, and Kayleigh Cousineau and her husband David. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Luca Pullano, Viviana Pullano, Ryan Degraide, Riley Degraide, Lydia Cousineau, and David Cousineau.
Surviving family members include his daughters Roberta “Robin” Degraide, married to Keith, and Denise Armstrong-Florio, married to Peter. His siblings, Walter Armstrong and Debra Garzone, are also among his survivors. He was predeceased by his parents, Henry B. Armstrong and Ann M. (Coletti) Armstrong, a son, Thomas B. Armstrong, and siblings Henry B. Armstrong Jr. and Audrey Dominques.
Outside of his business pursuits, Robert was an enthusiastic sports fan with a particular passion for the New England Patriots, Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics, and Boston Bruins. He was also a dedicated season ticket holder for Providence College Friars Basketball, showcasing his commitment to local teams and the community.
Robert actively engaged with his community by coaching baseball and girls’ softball for many years in Cranston. He was a proud member of the Alpine Country Club, where he enjoyed playing golf, further emphasizing his connection to the local area and its residents.
The family has expressed deep appreciation for the compassionate care provided by the nurses and staff at The Village at Waterman Lake during Robert’s final days.
Visiting hours for Robert Armstrong will take place on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Nardolillo Funeral Home & Crematory in Cranston. His funeral service is scheduled for Monday, September 15, 2025, beginning at 8:45 AM at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM in Holy Apostles Church, Cranston. Burial will occur at St. Ann Cemetery in Cranston.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, honoring Robert’s legacy of caring for others.
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Additional Resources
- Robert Feldman Obituary
- Wikipedia: Robert Armstrong
- Fred Brown Obituary
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Robert Armstrong
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PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
