FAIR OAKS RANCH, Texas – Surrounded by her loving family and friends, Regina Rose Parsons Armstrong, 71, passed away peacefully Dec. 9, 2010, at her home after a courageous battle with cancer. Gena was born Feb. 1, 1939, in Carmel, to Galen and Ernestine (Harvey) Parsons. Her early years were spent at home raising their three children. In 1973 she and Terry left their jobs in Maine and with their family moved to San Antonio, Texas, with longtime friend, Lew Hayden, to pursue the dream of a family-owned shoemaking company. Gena’s sacrifices and diligence driving a UPS truck helped the dream become a reality in 1976. A 1957 Carmel High School graduate, Gena was known as a kind and fun loving girl. She could be described as the most extraordinary of ordinary people – a salt of the Earth individual, with a hardworking-class heritage, which she carried forward her whole life. Gena enjoyed her summers in Camden, her gardens, fine arts and her architectural endeavors. She loved spending time with her siblings singing, listening and playing country music. Throughout the years she had many different dogs and cats that were her loving companions. Along with her son, Brian, she was an avid Spurs fan. She had a true spirit of adventure and traveled all over the world with family and friends. Gena was predeceased by her husband of 48 years, Terry Armstrong; her beloved son, Brian; and son-in-law, Travy Remmert. Survivors include her two daughters, Cheryl Remmert of Boerne, Texas, and Lisa Armstrong of San Antonio, Texas; and daughter-in-law, Julia Armstrong of Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas. Gena was a loving and proud nana to grandchildren, Tyler, Chloe and Audrey Remmert, Emily and Austin Latimer, and Sean and Calista Armstrong. She is also survived by her sisters, Priscilla Small of Bangor and Lenora “Nodie” Small of San Antonio, Texas; her brother, Clint Parsons of Otis; and sister, Ruth Rambo of Bangor. Gena’s extended family includes many nieces, nephews and cousins. Gena was deeply loved by countless family members, dear friends and loyal personal and San Antonio Shoes employees. The Armstrong family is so thankful for the love and devotion to Gena by her employees, companions and friends. Many would do just about anything for her because she was so special to them. We are fortunate and grateful for the time we’ve had with Gena and find peace in knowing that she is now with her precious son and husband. A memorial will be held 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 13, at San Antonio Shoes gymnasium. Gena will lie in state 4-9 p.m. Monday at Porter Loring North, San Antonio, Texas, where a celebration of Gena’s life will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 14, with temporary entombment at Mission Burial Park North. Final burial and graveside services will be held in the family plot in Carmel in the spring. Arrangements with Porter Loring Mortuary North, 2102 North Loop 1604 East, San Antonio, Texas. You are invited to sign the guest book at www.porterloring.com.
REGINA ROSE PARSONS ARMSTRONG
