Mary Armstrong Hammond

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Armstrong Hammond, who peacefully left this world on March 3, 2024, in her home in Paducah, Kentucky at the age of 68.

Mary was born on December 23rd, 1955, in the scenic St. John’s, Newfoundland in Canada, to Chief Master Sgt. Charles D. Armstrong and Ruby Squires Armstrong.  As a military family, they soon moved to Okinawa, Japan, where Mary spent much of her childhood and early education. At the age of six, the family welcomed a baby brother, Chuck, into the family. After moving to the United States, Mary and her family lived briefly in Maryland and Texas before finding a true home in the small city of Paducah, Kentucky, in the winter of 1971.

She attended Paducah Tilghman High School for her senior year and graduated Class of 1973. Mary was accepted into the University of Kentucky and quickly joined the Chi Omega Sorority, continuing a lifelong pursuit of personal development, community involvement, and supporting women’s empowerment.  Shortly after graduation, Mary joined the Paducah Tourist & Convention Commission in 1986, starting as part of a two-person team. Over the years, she rose through the ranks, serving as the Executive Director for the last 23 years. Her dedication and hard work led to significant achievements, including Paducah's designation as a UNESCO Creative City in 2013.  Mary was not only a leader in her professional life but also in various organizations and boards. She served as the Coordinator of the 59 UNESCO Creative Cities of Craft and Folk Art, on the Board of the National Quilt Museum, and on the U.S. Travel Association’s Board of Directors for two terms, among other prominent appointments.  Glenn Denton, Chairman of the Paducah Convention and Visitors Bureau, remarked, "Each and every year, day after day, she's outworked and surpassed everyone, and her legacy is going to live for a very long time."

Mary's impact extended far beyond her professional achievements. She will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her community. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Mary is survived by her nephews Charles Darling Armstrong III, James Hamilton Armstrong (Lauren Armstrong), and  Ian Douglas Armstrong, her nieces Erin Rachel Armstrong and Aislyn Mira Morning, great nephew and niece Keaton Oscar Armstrong, and Ella Nicole Armstrong, as well as a host of friends and colleagues who will cherish her memory.

A memorial service to celebrate Mary's life will be held on Friday, March 8th, 2024 at Grace Episcopal Church. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m with the service to follow at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the National Quilt Museum or Grace Episcopal Church in Mary's honor.

Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah is in charge of local arrangements. 

Please share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.