Colonel Hart Reed Armstrong

Colonel Hart Reed Armstrong, U.S. Army (Retired), passed away peacefully on October 31st, 2026, at the age of 92, in Louisville, KY. A dedicated Christian and a proud veteran, Hart honorably served his country on active duty from January 6, 1957, until his retirement on May 31, 1981, completing a distinguished military career spanning 24 years and 5 months.

Born in November 1933 in Red Bluff, CA, Hart grew up as a minister's and a missionary’s child, even growing up in a Sumatra village in his early years. He graduated from Wheaton College with a Music Degree. His early childhood experiences and faith laid a strong foundation for a calling to serve with a deep sense of devotion both on his military path and a lifetime of Christian ministry.

Upon commissioning into the United States Army, Hart embarked on a military career as an Armor Officer marked by excellence, integrity, and profound devotion to his soldiers and nation. Over his nearly two and a half decades of active service, he rose through the ranks to Colonel, commanding soldiers at multiple levels and deploying to Korea and Vietnam. His leadership and commitment to his country earned him the deep respect of peers and subordinates alike.

An exceptionally decorated officer, Colonel Armstrong's meritorious service was recognized with numerous military awards. His decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Presidential Unit Citation (Korea), the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, and an Overseas Service Bar.

Beyond his distinguished military service, Hart was a devoted Christian who loved the Lord with all his heart. His enduring faith was the cornerstone of his life, guiding him through his service and anchoring him as a family man. Hart was a member of Long Run Baptist Church for 46 years. He found great joy in leading worship and teaching Sunday School. Hart could often be found singing hymn and sharing the grace and love for Christ that defined his character. He was a loyal friend, a mentor to many, and left a legacy of service, discipline, and unconditional love that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Hart Reid Armstrong II; his mother, Iona Mehl Armstrong; his first wife, Anna Lou Litteral; and his second wife, Marie Louise Gander.

Hart is survived by his loving children, Steve (Suzie), Jeff (Robin), Tim (Mechelle) and Ami (David). He is also survived by his seven cherished grandchildren, Taylor, Brad, Kyle, Logan, Colin, Corey, and Molly; and his six precious great-grandchildren, Adelaide, Lenore, Isabella, Anneliese, Tate, and Abraham.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 10, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, East Louisville Chapel, 235 Juneau Drive, followed by a funeral ceremony at 12:30 p.m. A military graveside service with full honors celebrating the life and legacy of Colonel Hart Reed Armstrong will be held on Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central in Radcliff, KY.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in honor to the Samaritan Purse or the Louisville Salvation Army.

Christ, Family, Country. May he rest in eternal peace with his Savior and those he loved that proceeded Hart.