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Carlene B. (Blake) Armstrong

Posted 2009-06-26 by Judy Wight Branson
Carlene B. (Blake) Armstrong

Born in Jamestown, New York on May 8, 1930.
Departed on May 25, 2003 and resided in Cornville, Arizona.

Carlene B. Armstrong, 73, of Cornville, Arizona died May 25th. She was born May 8, 1930 in Jamestown, New York.

In 1985, Carlene purchased a 10 acre property in Cornville and established Rusty's Morningstar Ranch, a residential setting for autistic adults. Rusty's Morningstar Ranch is named for her son Rusty, who suffers from autism, a neurological disorder that interferes with the normal development and of reasoning and communication skills. Rusty's Morningstar Ranch has become a nurturing home for adults who suffer from this disorder. The 'ranchers' care for the animals, gardens and an orchard. They also can enjoy horseback riding, swimming, hiking. Her unique approach has been recognized as a model for residential programs for autistic adults.

Carlene founded Morningstar Foundation, Inc. which oversees the Ranch's operation and served as Executive Director and President of the Board of Rusty's Morning Star Ranch until her death.

Mrs. Armstrong is survived by her husband Leon M. Armstrong; daughter, Terri Siddons, husband George, Glendale, Ariz.; sons, Richard Armstrong and Mary of Garland, Tx.; Robin Blake Armstrong and Judith, Studio City, Calif.; Reed Alan Armstrong, N.Y., and Rusty Armstrong, Cornville, Ariz.; brothers: James R. Blake, Fort Worth, Tx.; LeRoy C. Blake, West Chester, Penn. and five grandchildren.

Her memorial service will be held Saturday, June 14 at the Verde Baptist Church at 10:30 a.m.

Those wishing to remember Carlene may send a memorial donation to the Morningstar Foundation P.O. Box 759 Cornville, Arizona, 86325-0759.

Westcott Funeral Home was entrusted with these arrangements.

Westcott Funeral Home, Cottonwood and Camp Verde, Arizona.




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