Carlene B. Armstrong

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\u0027s Morningstar Ranch, a residential setting for autistic adults. Rusty\u0027s 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\u0027s Morningstar Ranch has become a nurturing home for adults who suffer from this disorder. The \u0027\u0027ranchers\u0027\u0027 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\u0027s operation and served as Executive Director and President of the Board of Rusty\u0027s Morning Star Ranch until her death. Mrs. Armstrong is survived by her husband Leon M. \u0027\u0027Jack\u0027\u0027 Armstrong; a daughter: Terri Siddons and her husband George of Glendale, Arizona; four sons: Richard Armstrong and Mary of Garland, Texas; Robin Blake Armstrong and Judith of Studio City, California; Reed Alan Armstrong of New York, New York and Rusty Armstrong of Cornville, Arizona; two brothers: James R. Blake of Fort Worth, Texas; LeRoy C. Blake of West Chester, Pennsylvania and five grandchildren. Her memorial service will be held Saturday, June 14 at the Verde Baptist Church at 10:30 AM. Those wishing to remember Carlene may send a memorial donation to the Morningstar Foundation P.O. Box 759 Cornville, AZ 86325-0759. Westcott Funeral Home was entrusted with these arrangements.