James W. Armstrong, III (Jim) 63, of Palmetto, FL, lost his battle with Myelodysplastic Syndrome "MDS" (a rare, and often undetected blood cancer) on October 13, 2024.
Born in Lynn, MA and raised in Swampscott, Jim was the son of Sheila Armstrong and the late James Armstrong. He was a 1978 graduate of Swampscott High School. Having spent many years working as a contractor in Swampscott, Jim moved to Manatee County in Florida in 1995 with his future wife, Diane. Jim worked as a Chief Plant Operator in water utilities for Sarasota County until his retirement. Living on the ocean and taking his boat out on the water was one of Jim's most favorite past times. Jim also loved to spend time at his family's camp in Limington, Maine, whether he was hunting, fishing, boating, snowmobiling, or just kicking back and spending time with those he cared about.
In addition to his wife Diane, whom he was married to for 25 years, and his mother Sheila, Jim is survived by his sister Karen Antczak and her husband John, his brother Steven Armstrong and his wife Juliet, his sister Nancy Lord and her husband Gary, his step children Bryce and Brad, his step grandchildren Scott, Will, Peter, and Vanessa as well as his nieces and nephews, Matthew, Samuel, Tyler, Riley, Mackenna, and Zoe.
While Jim fought the good fight for seven years, the last few years of his life were a struggle as the ugly grip of MDS relentlessly took over. Although he spent most days in pain, Jim never lost his ability to make everyone laugh with his quick-witted comments and amazing sense of humor. Jim leaves a huge hole in the hearts of his family and friends, but we were so blessed to have been a part of his life. Our hope is that he saw how truly loved he was by all that knew him. Rest easy - until we meet again.
A celebration of Jim's life will be held in his memory at 2pm on Saturday, June 14th at the River Tap and Grill, 52 Golf Course Lane, Hollis Center, ME. We would love for you to join us and share some laughs and stories of a truly great guy.
His family asks that no flowers be given. If you feel you must give something, please consider a donation in his name to Tidewell Hospice (tidewellhospice.org). We owe an incredible amount of thanks to the staff located at 2504 34th Ave. W, Bradenton, FL who graciously supported Jim in his last few days. They were the best of the best; wonderful, caring, gentle and empathetic.
Anyone looking for additional information please feel free to reach out to Steven at sarmstrong@rivertapandgrill.com
