Obituary of Ardis Armstrong

Affectionately known as Granny Goose, Ardis Berdean Armstrong passed away peacefully November 15, 2016 after a series of strokes. Born March 13, 1934 to Emery Alden Johnson and Wanda Ann Javoroski, she is now at peace with her Lord and Savior in the Kingdom of Heaven. She is no doubt playing the piano and singing her favorite tunes to an inspired audience. Ardis was born in Dodge Center, Minnesota into a Christian family with the gift of music and that gift was bestowed upon her. She began playing the piano at age 5 and never looked back. She was a favorite at gatherings with friends and family with her keenly tuned ear and ability to replicate a song perfectly after only hearing it once. Whenever the opportunity presented itself Ardis would say “let’s have a sing-along”. Then, from behind the ivory keys of the baby grand piano she so cherished for 50 years, the most amazing tunes would fill the room. Ardis grew up and graduated from high school in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. She attended the University of Washington before graduating from Brown University where she met her husband Milford E Sherman; marrying in 1959. They moved to Barstow, CA in 1965 and then to Santa Barbara in 1968. In 1986 she moved to Arroyo Grande, CA where Ardis met and married her second husband, Dr. Phillip C Armstrong. After his passing she moved to Oxnard, CA to be closer to her daughter. In addition to her music she was a lover of books and writing. She wrote several short stories published by Reader’s Digest and a novel of her life (unpublished) called “Not all Angels have Wings”. Now she is an angel in heaven. Her great wit, intelligence, determination and love of family will be greatly missed. Ardis is survived by her brothers Dr. Roger Johnson, Wauwautosa, WI and Dale Johnson, Spokane, WA; son William T Sherman, Aloha, OR; daughter Cordelia B Sherman, Ventura, CA; granddaughter Crystall C Montano, Portland, OR; her adored grandkids Elias and Ily and her beloved grand dog Zoie. She was preceded in death by her parents, both spouses and sister Lois Allen. The family would like to recognize Sandra Young for her years of loving care and friendship. A private service will be planned at a later date.