Troy Lee Armstrong

Troy Lee Armstrong passed away on the morning of Tuesday, February 25, 2025, after courageously battling various health issues over the last several years. He was 82 years old. Troy leaves behind his beloved wife of 53 years, Judy, and his children, Jessica and Zachary (wife Melissa), and grandson Bennett Lee, who will forever cherish his charisma, humor, wit and boundless love.

Born in Forrest City, Arkansas and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Troy’s thirst for knowledge led him beyond his hometown to pursue higher education. He earned his undergraduate degree from The University of Chicago, where he captained the chess team, and later obtained his Master’s Degree from The University of New Mexico and his PhD from Boston University. A lifelong student of the game, he never forgot the thrill of traveling through Europe in the 1970s and playing chess against his idol, Bobby Fischer.

Troy dedicated his professional life to the field of criminal anthropology, serving as a professor at California State University Sacramento. His work extended far beyond the classroom—he was a passionate advocate for underprivileged youth in the criminal justice system, traveling the world as a consultant and authoring several books on the subject. He worked with several agencies that championed the needs of Native American youth. His commitment to justice and education left a lasting impact on many.

Outside of academia, Troy found joy in bringing people together. A devoted home winemaker, he founded a wine co-op in River Park, cultivating a close-knit community bound by their love of wine, food, and music. These gatherings became legendary, filled with laughter, great conversation, epic meals and the sounds of his favorite artists—Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, Stevie Nicks, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin and Tom Petty, to name a few.

Troy and Judy shared a passion for adventure, exploring the world together. Some of his most treasured memories include celebrating his 70th birthday in Europe with family, wine tasting in the South of France with friends and family, and marveling at the wonders of the Galápagos Islands, Macha Pichu and Egypt. No matter where he was, Troy carried with him a deep love for Chicago sports, remaining a steadfast supporter of the Cubs and Da Bears, ever the optimist through every season.

A man of great compassion, Troy was a devoted philanthropist, with a particular love for animals— especially chimpanzees and elephants. Also, he dearly loved his dogs for the joy that they brought him- Wesley, Marley & Vino. His generosity and warmth touched many lives, and though he left this world too soon, he made the most of every moment.

Troy will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to his passions will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

A celebration of Troy’s life will be held April 26th, 2025 in Sacramento, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Jane Goodall Institute efforts in his honor.

GO CUBS GO! BEAR DOWN!