Nicole Ashley Armstrong

Nicole Ashley Armstrong was born on September 18, 1946, to Merle and Christiane Ashley, who predeceased her. She is survived by her husband, Dr. James (Bubba) Armstrong; her brother, Andy Ashley of Atlanta, GA; her children, Ashley Koontz (m. Eric Koontz) and her daughters, Maggie and Bradley Koontz of Atlanta, GA; and Cade Armstrong (m. Aynsley Armstrong) and his daughters, Mary Weldon and Martha Armstrong, and his sons, Greer and Harris Armstrong of Montgomery.

As a child, she lived in 18 different places during her father’s military service, which created a deep love for travel and exploring the world around her. She later shared this love with her family, taking them on trips to places such as Alaska and Yellowstone.

Throughout her life, Nicky was exceptionally compassionate and giving and made an impact in every organization of which she was a part. Always wanting to care for others, she first worked as a scrub nurse in open-heart surgery, where she eventually met James (Bubba) Armstrong; they married on July 19, 1969.

After the birth of her two children, Nicky was an active member of the Montgomery community. She belonged to numerous organizations, such as the Antiquarians, the Junior League, and the Montgomery Museum of Fine Art Wine Auction, among others. As a member of First United Methodist Church, she worked with the Flower Ministry and Respite. Nicky was one of the original fourteen volunteers who helped establish the Respite Ministry at FUMC. From those early beginnings, the ministry has grown to include thousands of volunteers across the country. She also served as a founding member and officer of the Respite Board, where her leadership, commitment, and compassionate spirit helped shape the ministry and guide its success. Nicky was a dedicated Monday volunteer with Respite and worked tirelessly in the kitchen providing meals to participants. Her love of entertaining and ability to care for people made her a treasured part of the Respite community.

One of Nicky’s favorite hobbies was flower arranging; she created spaces of beauty and grace. Whether for an ordinary church service, a baptism, or a special party, her talents always shone through.

Nicky found joy in seeing the beauty in both people and the world around her, which she showed through a lifelong love of service, art, travel, and time spent with family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 2416 W Cloverdale Park, Montgomery, AL 36106. Visitation will be precede the service at 10:00 a.m. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

Respite Ministry

2416 W. Cloverdale Park

Montgomery, AL 36106

Service Dogs of Alabama

8365 Mobile Hwy

Hope Hull, AL  36043

Hope Inspired Ministries

145 Coliseum Blvd

Montgomery, AL 36109

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