Howard Lacy Armistead Jr. M.D. passed away on November 28, 2023, at New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, NC with Ashby and Lacey at his side.

Dr. Armistead was born in Tennessee and grew up in Virginia. He attended Pharmacy School at the Medical College of Virginia and later received his medical degree from the University of Virginia. He completed his residency at the old James Walker Hospital in Wilmington, NC. He opened an independent family practice in the late 1960’s. He closed the office in 2000 but continued to work part time, in Occupational Medicine and doing FAA flight physicals for pilots. He loved his patients, which contributed to his longevity in the medical field.

Howard enjoyed spending time with his family, growing vegetables, golf in his younger years, watching football in the fall, spending time in the mountains of NC, and tinkering with his antique cars. He loved Tuesday night dinner with his friends and his Wednesday night Bible study. He served his community as Wrightsville Beach Mayor, a New Hanover County Commissioner, a New Hanover County ABC Board Member, Belville ABC Board Member, and on the New Hanover Regional Medical Center Board of Directors.

He is survived by his daughter, Lacey A. Armistead and husband, Bob Witt of High Point, NC; son Ashby G. Armistead of Wilmington, NC; his oldest son Howard L. Armistead III and wife, Mary Van, of Dallas, Texas; and his first wife Faith, mother of Howard L. Armistead III. Howard’s grandchildren are Elizabeth L. Armistead, Howard Armistead IV and wife Emma B., Caroline E. Masterson and husband Blake W. and their daughter, Ellis Ann.

He was preceded in death by his parents Howard and Lena Armistead, his beloved sister Barbara “Boogie” Armistead Smith, and second wife Linda, mother of Ashby and Lacey.

Special thanks to Dr. Eskew, Dr. Powers, and the amazing ICU staff at New Hanover Medical Center. Margaret, RN, Erin, RN, you are truly a blessing. We appreciate the excellent care and support.