Kelly Armstrong

Kelly Cook Armstrong, born March 7, to Richard and Shirley Cook, passed away in her home on December 7, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was a lifelong resident of the Española Valley, a place that shaped her spirit and community values. She attended McCurdy High School before earning her bachelor’s degree in business administration and accounting from Eastern New Mexico University.

Her life was defined by deep roots, hard work, and an unwavering devotion to the people and places she loved. She married her husband, Hal Armstrong, and together they raised their daughters, Sarah and Kacie, instilling in them the same resilience and determination that guided her own life. She was also a proud grandmother to Richie, Brandon, and Lexy, each of whom brought her immense joy.

Kelly played an active and lasting role in shaping both the physical and civic landscape of the Española Valley. An industrious woman, she spent much of her life working throughout the region, including overseeing Cook’s Home Center. Her imprint can be seen in the many buildings she helped bring to life and felt in the character she strengthened through decades of service, support, and steady leadership. Her sense of responsibility to her community ran deep. She served on the McCurdy School Board of Directors, backed countless 4H projects, helped bring the Christmas Light Parade to life through her work with Española MainStreet, and quietly championed many other local efforts that enriched the Valley she loved so dearly.

Yet what people will remember most is not only what she built, but who she was. You could recognize her anywhere by her contagious laugh and her sharp, signature whistle – sounds that announced her presence before she ever entered a room. She had a lifelong love for animals, a generous heart, and a dry wit that could disarm almost anyone. And she was lucky in ways that became a family legend – especially in Las Vegas, where she somehow always came home ahead.

Kelly moved through life with competence, humor, and heart, leaving a mark on everyone who knew her. Her family, friends, and community will carry her memory forward in the stories she inspired, the places she helped build, and the laughter she brought into so many rooms. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her influence will live on.

A Memorial Service will take place on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 11:00 am in the Sangre de Cristo Chapel at DeVargas Funeral Home in Espanola, NM.

The family of Kelly Armstrong has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley. 505-747-7477