Dawn Ann Armstrong

Dawn (Smith) Armstrong, age 63, of Head Waters, passed away Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at UVA Medical Center.

She was born April 23, 1962, a daughter of the late John Clyde and Joy Ann (Mitchell) Smith.

Dawn was a graduate of Highland High School’s Class of 1980 and also Berea College, where she studied nursing. As a registered nurse, Dawn worked for multiple facilities in her career, including Martha Jefferson Hospital and ultimately, Western State Hospital. A woman of faith, she was a member of the former Head Waters Presbyterian Church and attended McDowell Presbyterian Church in recent years.

An avid football fan, Dawn enjoyed watching the UVA Cavaliers, Dallas Cowboys, and loved watching her nephew, Carson play. Additionally, she enjoyed traveling to the beach with her friends. Above all, she will be fondly remembered as a compassionate nurse, loving daughter, and aunt.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a brother, Robert Lee “Sonny” Smith; and sister, Jean Higgins.

She is survived by her nephews and nieces, Kenton Smith and girlfriend, Heather Hamilton, Katie Townsend and husband, Chad, Hunter Higgins, and Shannon Higgins; great-nephews and great-niece, Carson, Kenslee, and Dylan; as well as her beloved canine companion, Tipsy.

A graveside service will be held 1 p.m., Monday, December 8, 2025 in Head Waters Cemetery with Rev. Beth Pyles officiating.

Memorial contributions may be sent to McDowell Volunteer Fire Department, c/o Delbert Rexrode, 527 Windrush Lane, Doe Hill, Va. 24433.