Judith Lee (Hennan) Armstrong

Troy – Judith Lee (Hennan) Armstrong, 82, of Beechwood Apartments, died at home on Saturday, February 6, 2021, after her decade-long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease was brought to a merciful conclusion. Her passing was swift and pain-free and she died surrounded by dear friends and family.

Born in Lynn, MA, she was the daughter of the late Russell and Marjorie (Clinch) Hennan. She graduated from Lynn Classical High School with what would become a lifelong love of theater.

Her passion for teaching was kindled into flame at Salem State University. An equally drama-minded boy she met in high school named Roger would, in 1960, become her beloved husband. The Armstrongs celebrated 60 years of marriage in June 2020.

Judy operated the Campus Playschool at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute from 1975 to 2000, in that time teaching alongside notable assistants Bonnie Fucci, Eve Halloran and Janet Salisbury, among others. Serving RPI’s multi-cultural graduate student community, the Playschool was a place where 3- and 4-year olds from dozens of countries learned to “sing about it, talk about it, play about it.” In Judy’s tenure there, hundreds of families were touched by her gentle, guiding hands.

She was a past-president of the League of Women Voters of Rensselaer County and a member of the Board of Directors of Joseph’s House & Shelter. She loved genealogy and fully researched and annotated the Armstrong, Clinch and Hennan family lines. Judy was also a friend of Dr. Bob for 38 years, where she supported and inspired many.

Survivors in addition to her husband include her children, Peter Armstrong (Bethany Beaudoin), Julie Armstrong Doak (Thayne) and John Armstrong (Beth); her grandchildren, Russell, Maisie, Lily and, in Heaven, Grace; two sisters, Patricia Woods and Janice Soucy, and several dear nieces, nephews and cousins. Judy was predeceased by a brother, Phillip Hennan.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 24, 2021 at 11 AM at the RPI Chapel and Cultural Center 2125 Burdett Avenue Troy. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery, Troy.

Judy adored flowers and surrounded her home with beautiful gardens. Gifts of flowers will be welcome at the memorial service. Contributions in her memory may also be made to Joseph’s House & Shelter and Unity House. 

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