Johnny "Monty" Montgomery

On Friday, the 15th day of March 2024, Johnny Wayne Montgomery, of Grapeland, Texas, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. He joined our loving Lord and Savior in Heaven at the age of 84. "Monty" as he was affectionately known by his family and friends, was born in Bakersfield, California, on the 18th day of February 1940 to parents John Montgomery and Lillie Mae Black. He was a cherished husband, father, brother, and friend who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him.

Monty's journey through life was shared with his beloved wife of 47 years, Martha Montgomery, who stood by his side as a partner and confidante. Together, they raised a family that was the center of Monty's world. His daughters, Marla Reeves of Crockett, Texas, and Leslie Moore, along with her husband Todd of Groveton, Texas, were his pride and joy. Monty's love for his family extended to his stepfather, Buford Sparkman, his sister, Kathy Sparkman of Spring, Texas, and his brothers, Robert Montgomery of Arlington, Texas, and Keith Sparkman of Dallas, Texas. The legacy of Monty's generous spirit and wisdom will live on through his cherished grandchildren, Seth Reeves, Shelby Reeves, Cash Moore, Lauren Moore and his great-grandchildren, Chandler Purvis, Dawson Purvis, and Dallen Purvis, all who were the light of his life, along with numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends. He is preceded in death by his father, John Montgomery, mother, Lillie Sparkman, sister, Barbara Pyle, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Gene and Mary Lou Huff, and his brother-in-law, Larry Huff.

A proud Army Veteran, Monty served his country with honor and distinction before embarking on a long and successful career. For 51 years, he dedicated his talents to Vulcraft, a division of Nucor, where his hard work and commitment were well recognized. Monty's sense of community was further exemplified through his active membership at Grapeland First Baptist Church, where he found spiritual fulfillment and camaraderie.

Monty's interests and hobbies were as rich and varied as his character. His greatest accomplishment was his family, and he poured his heart into nurturing and supporting them in every possible way. He loved his grandchildren immensely and played a significant role in their upbringing and lives. Monty found solace and joy in the simple pleasures of working in his yard, where he could often be found tending to his garden with the same care he gave to his relationships. His love for reading Christian-based books provided him with comfort and guidance, while his younger days were filled with the outdoor pursuits of dove hunting and fishing, activities that brought him closer to nature and the companionship of friends.

Generous, loving, and wise—these words encapsulate the essence of Monty's character. He was a man who lived with purpose and grace and gave freely of himself and his resources. His loving nature was the foundation upon which his family was built, and his presence will be deeply missed, but the impact of his life will continue to resonate with all who were fortunate enough to know him.

On Tuesday, the 19th day of March 2024 at eleven o'clock in the morning we will celebrate Monty Montgomery's life at Grapeland First Baptist Church with Bro. Gary Luker officiating the service. Interment will follow in Dailey Cemetery.

Friends are invited to visit with the family one hour prior to the start of the service at Grapeland First Baptist Church.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Seth Reeves, Glenn Huff, Leland Moore, Donnie McMahan, Scott Wilson, and Lawrence Richie. Honorary pallbearers include Monty's Sunday School Class.

Funeral services for Johnny Wayne Montgomery are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas.

We invite you to please take a moment and visit Monty's online memorial tribute wall, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with his family.