Sharon Kay Armstrong (Black), 77, of Seymour, Illinois, born August 21, 1948, in Decatur, Illinois, died on January 19, 2026, in Urbana, Illinois, due to secondary complications from cancer. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Armstrong; her son, Lucas Armstrong; her parents, Burl and Betty Black; and her
elder brother, Burl Black Jr.

She is survived by her siblings, Linda (Carl) Johnson (Black), Johnny (Anne) Black, and Dennis (Kelli) Black; her grandchildren, Jacob Armstrong and Sabrina (Sebastian) Armstrong; as well as several generations of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews.

Sharon graduated from Warrensburg-Latham High School in 1966. She studied at the University of Illinois at Chicago before becoming employed by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Sharon dedicated many years of service to various departments at the University before retiring from the Risk Management Department. She remained a devoted Illini sports fan throughout her life, cheering on the basketball and football teams, often gathered with her family.

Spending time with family and friends remained one of Sharon’s favorite pastimes throughout her life. She looked forward to annual family fish frys hosted by her sister Linda and brother-in-law Carl, laughing and enjoying a good meal year after year. She spent countless hours having coffee with her “baby brother” Dennis and sister-in-law Kelli, and she enjoyed attending family Thanksgiving at her brother Johnny and sister-in-law Anne’s home.

Even watching television became a social event for Sharon, as she shared her love of the Game Show Network by watching Press Your Luck with her grandson, or The Walking Dead with her niece. When life called for a little more excitement, Sharon would hit the town with her longtime friend Nancy, traveling and enjoying casino trips.

Sharon will be remembered for her sense of humor, her kind heart, her listening ear, and the love she brought to those around her. She brought grace and levity to everyone fortunate enough to have their lives touched by her. She will be deeply missed by many. We are thankful that her pain has ended and that she will be
reunited with her loved ones who passed before her.

Memorial services will be announced at a later date.