John D.R. Armstrong, 70 of East Hartford, CT formerly of Pittsfield, MA passed away at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford, CT on Wednesday March 15, 2017 due to a sudden illness.John was born on January 18, 1947 and was a graduate of Pittsfield High School class of 1965. He also attended Berkshire Community College in Pittsfield, MA. John performed office and clerical work for many years, and also devoted his time as a volunteer. John enjoyed his frequent visits to Pittsfield, and planned to return to live there at some point in the future.John was predeceased by his mother Julia Melle Armstrong, his father Howard Armstrong both of Pittsfield and his brother John Bergen from Texas.John is survived by his partner of 38 years, Vanessa Stevens of East Hartford, CT who he shared his life with. He leaves his nephew Timothy Bergen of Texas and several cousins. John also leaves a number of friends and caregivers that looked after him and Vanessa on a daily basis in the East Hartford area.Funeral Notice: Funeral Services will take place Tuesday, March 21, 2017 at 8:45 a.m. from the FLYNN & DAGNOLI-BENCIVENGA FUNERAL HOME, 5 Elm Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. at St. Joseph's Church, 414 North St., Pittsfield with the Rev. Monsignor Michael A. Shershanovich, Pastor officiating. Burial will follow in the family plot at St. Joseph's Cemetery. There are No Calling Hours.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made directly to St. Joseph's Church, 414 North St. Pittsfield, MA 01201.