James W. Armstead, Sr.

November 8, 1948 – June 18, 2026 With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of James W. Armstead, Sr., a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. James departed this earthly life on June 18, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and service that will continue to inspire those who knew him. Born in the quiet town of Sardis, Mississippi, on November 8, 1948, James was the cherished son of the late John L. Armstead Sr. and Lue E. Durden Armstead. He was predeceased by his devoted wife, Rita E. Armstead, and their son, James W. (Lil James) Armstead Sr., as well as his parents, sister Mattie Armstead Adair, brother Herman L. Armstead, and grandsons Karriem Armstead and Raymoan Goodrich Sr. James leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory: his daughter Jacinta Lizette Armstead and son John Carlos Armstead Sr. (Rosiland); grandchildren Tenesha, Jamilah, Elias (Taylor), Kalen, Jammie, Asia, Jabril, and John Carlos Jr.; and great-grandchildren Jonae, Raymoan Jr, Victoria, Kaden, Rhya, and Issac. He is also survived by his dear sisters Ruth Marie (Robert) of Memphis, TN; Bobble LaBarre (Tony) of Houston, TX; Edith L. Lee of Memphis, TN; and brothers John L. Armstead Sr. (Stephanie) of St. Louis, MO, and Sylvester Armstead of Memphis, TN. A host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and his cherished friends from Mosque 28B, led by Minister Donald Muhammad, remain to celebrate James's life and legacy. James met the love of his life, Rita Elaine Stewart, during a fateful walk to the Old Sears Building, culminating in their union in holy matrimony on March 28, 1975. Together, they shared 43 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, faith, and community service. A graduate of Mitchell Road High School in Memphis, TN, class of 1968, James later retired from Lincoln Industrial as a Tool/Dye Machinist. His industrious spirit led him to proudly establish two businesses, including the NOI Information Center in St. Louis, a welcoming place of knowledge and culture. James took great pride in spreading the teachings of Minister Louis Farrakhan and the Nation of Islam, which he credited, alongside his wife and daughter, with saving his life. James and Rita joined the Nation of Islam, Mosque #28B in East St. Louis, Illinois, around 1980, becoming pioneers in its rebuilding under Minister Louis Farrakhan and Minister Abdul Akbar Muhammad. James treasured the teachings of the Minister, often reflecting on how they transformed his understanding of faith and life. Beyond his professional and spiritual pursuits, James was a man of many passions. He found joy in bowling, a beloved pastime passed down to his son John Carlos Sr. and grandson John Carlos Jr. He cherished his coffee rituals with his son, discussing politics, family history, and cherished memories from "The Junction." James was a man of immense heart and generosity, always ready to lend a hand to those in need, embodying the belief that family was paramount. His deep love for his family was evident in his dedication to starting the Armstead-Watson Family Reunion in 1998, an enduring testament to his commitment to family unity. James's presence was unmistakable, whether you knew him as Brother Jamie, Dad, Granddad, or P Willie. He was always impeccably dressed, a testament to his vibrant spirit and love for life. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Cathy for her unwavering support and to Cedric and Nikki Freeman and the Bar Code Family for their kindness and care. Your compassion and generosity have been deeply appreciated. A celebration of James's life will be held on July 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Austin Layne Mortuary: Renaissance Chapel, located at 7239 West Florissant Ave, St. Louis, MO 63136. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. The family of James W. Armstead Sr. is thankful for the comforting expressions of sympathy extended through prayers, texts, emails, encouragements, cards, phone calls, direct messages, and blessings. Your kindness has brought us peace and joy during our bereavement. Though James has departed from this world, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he touched. May his memory be a blessing, and may we all strive to live with the same love, dignity, and compassion that James exemplified every day of his life. May Allah Be Pleased with Him!