A celebration of life service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Hathorn Funeral Home in Columbia for William Joseph (Joe) Armstrong, 85, of Columbia, who passed away Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at Forrest General Hospital. Visitation will be held from 12:00 pm until 2:00 pm on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Hathorn Funeral Home.

Joe Armstrong, known to many as "Daddy Joe," passed away peacefully surrounded by an adoring family to whom he devoted his life. He was raised in the Mississippi Delta, surrounded by a close-knit family, and enjoyed life on a farm. For five decades, he dedicated his career to Pioneer Aerospace where he worked as an engineer and developed lasting friendships with many coworkers. Throughout his life, he was involved in many aspects of 4H, both showing cattle and later volunteering as an instructor for shooting sports. He was a proud supporter of Columbia Academy and Mississippi State University, feeling a sense of home in each of these places. He had a strong curiosity and adventurous spirit which led him on many travels, including a recent and meaningful journey to Scotland to explore his family's lineage. He will be most remembered for his unique personality, huge generosity, unwavering loyalty, and distinctive outlook on life.

He was preceded in death by his Father, Clifton Armstrong; Mother, Annie Bailey Armstrong.

He is survived by his Wife of 60 years, Mary Leach Armstrong; Daughter, Lisa Williamson (Jeff); two Grandchildren, Heather Williamson (Tommy) and Lauren Williamson (Tyler); two Great Grandchildren, Theodore Giardelli and Mary Rosalynn Giardelli; A host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the food pantry of Marion County.

Hathorn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Friends may sign an online guest register book at www.hathornfuneralhome.com