Raymond (Ray) E. Armbruster

Raymond (Ray) E. Armbruster, a cherished husband, devoted father, beloved grandfather, and devoted friend, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2026, in Charlotte, North Carolina, at the age of 84. Born on October 5, 1941, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Ray lived a life marked by his unwavering compassion, kindness, and an unyielding commitment to the well-being of others.

Ray served as President of R.E.A. Sales, a manufacturer's representative for Master Lock. He was a highly respected leader and award-winning top salesman, earning numerous honors including the prestigious Presidents Cup award. Ray served his country honorably for two years in the Army, where he earned the commendation of Expert Marksman, reflecting both discipline and precision in his duties. His military service instilled in him a sense of dedication that permeated every aspect of his life. He embraced his role within the community with a servant’s heart; he was involved in many capacities within the church, contributing to Men of Acts, ushering, serving at Primetimers’ dinners, and assisting with counting offerings, always ready to lend a helping hand whenever a need arose.

Family life brought Ray immense joy, particularly during holiday gatherings filled with laughter and fond memories created alongside his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. To him, these moments served as the true essence of happiness, symbolizing the love that united the family he so deeply treasured. He relished the simple joys of life, from engaging in relaxing games of sudoku and board games to cultivating his garden and expressing his creativity through woodworking and seasonal decorations. He loved playing golf and was an avid fly and trout fisherman taking his love for it out West as well to the Elk River Club in Banner Elk, NC. His passion for yard work and festooning his home for every occasion reflected a spirit full of life and whimsy. He was very passionate about living a healthy lifestyle and enjoyed working out at the Dowd Y and JCC. He lived each day to the fullest, embracing life with gratitude, humor, and purpose. He had a rare gift of turning friends into family, welcoming everyone with an open heart. Above all, he loved sharing his faith and joyfully telling others about Jesus Christ, his savior, who guided his life and gave him unshakable hope.

Ray is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Dee Armbruster, his children: Suzanne Gulledge and her husband Gerald Gulledge, Jennifer Patterson and her husband Gary Patterson, Amy Triggs-Hurley and her husband Keith Hurley, Jeff Armbruster, Todd Armbruster and his wife Hannah Armbruster, 5 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his sister Janet Hoegel, his mother Violet Armbruster, his father Henry Armbruster, and his beloved sister Deedee.

In the tapestry of life, Ray wove threads of love, compassion, and service that touched the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy will forever be cherished by his family and friends, who will carry his spirit in their hearts and honor his memory through acts of kindness and love, just as he had shown them throughout his life.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation for the compassionate care and respect Ray received while at Briar Creek at The Barclay - SouthPark.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Friday, February 13, 2026, at 12:00PM at Central Church - Main Sanctuary, 5301 Sardis Road, Charlotte, NC 28270. The family will receive friends at 11:00AM until the hour of service at 12:00PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to The Ivey Brain Health & Memory Wellness Center, 6030 Park South Drive, Charlotte, NC 28210. The Ivey Brain Health & Memory Wellness Center