Willie Ray Armstead, Jr., of Mount Pleasant, entered eternal rest on Monday, March 2, 2026, at the age of 70. He was born in Mount Pleasant, Texas on December 26, 1955, to Carol (Palmer) and Willie Ray Armstead, Sr.

He is reunited in his passing with his father, Willie R. Armstead, Sr., mother, Carol Palmer Armstead, and brother, Don Armstead.

Willie was a good-hearted person, a character, with a big personality. In his spare time, he showed his family love by cooking comfort foods. He tried his hand at many dishes and made all of them well.

His survivors include his beloved wife, Carolyn A. (Mitchell) Armstead, children, Derris Jones and wife, Fatima, Shante Jones Hatcher and husband, Ronnie, Dimitri Mitchell, Davone Armstead, Cameron Armstead; grandchildren, Derris Jones, Jr., Alfonso Jones and Lorenzo Jones; mother, Carol Armstead, siblings, Ron Armstead and Linda Armstead; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially for croppie. His family recalls that he spent his quiet time watching westerns and the news. Willie also was known for wearing hats and proudly wore his favorite, his black cowboy hat.

Willie will be honored with simple, direct cremation.

He lived a good life, and his family will miss him dearly. The moments that he shared with his family will live on in their memory of him.

We Love You, Willie Ray Armstead, Jr.!