Earle Armster

A Celebration of Life” - Earle Andre Armster

Earle Andre Armster (aka Ricky) departed this life on August 28, 2021, at the age of 70, in Las Vegas, Nevada.  His battle with serious medical issues in recent years showed his courage in facing challenges with a smile.  He never complained.  Despite his condition, Earle was our hero and stayed strong until the end.

Born to James and Mae Armster on November 11, 1950, in Thomasville, Georgia.  Earle’s early education began at Susie H. Dunlap Elementary School.  He attended Douglas High School (Class of ‘68), where he excelled in music, basketball, and football. Additionally, Earle attended Fort Valley State University (Fort Valley, Georgia) and Georgia State University (Atlanta, Georgia).

The family was essential to Earle, as evident by the numerous trips to Atlanta to visit with his mother and brother.  His love for his children and grandson was important.  He made time to nurture, mentor, support, encourage, participate in sports, prepare gourmet dinners, and offer a “gentle” scolding if needed.

Earle was an avid Martial Artist and studied traditional Okinawan Kobayashi Ryu Kate under karate master Sensei Dan Sawyer (Las Vegas, Nevada).  Earle participated in several tournaments and won numerous trophies.  In 2003 Earle was inducted into the Masters Hall of Fame for outstanding contributions to the martial arts.

Earle was exceptional in the culinary profession and retired as a Chef from the Rio Hotel and Casino Resort (Las Vegas). A man of many talents, Earle was an author, mentor, friend, and served as a union steward with the Culinary Union, fighting and protecting the rights of culinary employees.

He is preceded in death by his father James, mother Mae, and brother George Armster.  Survivors are his children; son Nicholas D. Armster and daughter Gabriella A. Armster (mother Donna), beloved grandson Benjamin Armster, life friend and guardian Cheryl A. Stallworth, extended family, and a host of friends. 

The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to the Douglass High School Class of 68’ – “The Mighty Lions”, Lenny and Pat Wilson, Eric Jones (Barber), and the Sawyer family for your calls, cards, contributions, jokes, serenades, and visits.