Jason Armstrong

Jason left us suddenly on Sunday, January 15, 2023.  He was born May 8, 1951 and was 71 years old.  He was a professional singer and had performed over the Corpus Christi region.  He graduated from high school in Phoenix, Arizona and was part of their choir and the All State Choirs.  His spectacular Baritone voice was well known. He attended North Texas State University and was in their renown music programs.  He lived in Los Angeles for a period of time and was with a band there in the early 70's. During the time he studied voice, he realized his preferred genre of music was by the singers of the 30's and 40's, The Big Band Era. He moved to Dallas in the mid 70's and there met his life partner and soulmate, Rick Hutchins.  He became involved in the arts in Dallas and was a member of the Dallas Opera, Dallas Symphony Association, Theatre Three, and The Lyric Opera of Dallas where he was a founding board member.  Jason was elected to take over the fledgling Theatre Three Guild, and under his tenure as President the Guild more than tripled in membership, and the budget increased 10 fold.  He also was the headliner singer with the Lyric Opera when special fundraising balls were held which featured music from upcoming productions. The Lyric was known for its productions of Gilbert and Sullivan and other grand operas, all performed in English with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra to huge audiences in the beautifully restored Majestic Theater. Jason was also a food and beverage manager for Tolbert's Chili Parlor and the Dallas Towne Club.  With their love of fishing and the ocean In 1989 he and his partner decided to move to Corpus Christi.  He again became involved in the arts and was a member of the First United Methodist church where he was a choir member under the direction of Joseph Abston and later, Brad Kisner.  He also was also a member of the Corpus Christi Chorale.  When the USS Lexington was brought into Corpus Christi to become a museum, Jason and Rick approached them about having a Big Band Show type fundraiser.  The first show was held 30 years ago and has continued each year in February.  He also started Dinner Cabaret shows in restaurants with friends Flick Rahn and Geri Crowe Elliff featuring the music of the well known composers.  The shows were attended by 1000's over the years, and their Christmas Show became the highlight of the year for many with Jason, Flicka, Geri singing and David Crawford at the keyboards

Jason is survived by his brothers Mike Lentz and Paul Lentz, nephew Scott Lentz, Robert Dunaway who has been a son to him for decades and his life married soulmate Rick Hutchins.  Jason was always smiling, laughing, and had a hug for everyone.  He was exuberant almost to a fault.  Many thanks to dear friends Flicka Rahn, life long friend Vitoria Okorn, Judy Flemister, Dr. Ellis Main,  and Geri Elliff for the positive support they have given and are giving during this time.

A Memorial Service will be held at a future date.