James Russel Montgomery

James R. Montgomery, 85, Galion, passed away at home on Thursday, March 17, 2022, after a lengthy illness. He was born on February 22, 1937, in Greenup County, Kentucky. James married the former Marjorie Johnston on April 26, 1958, and she survives.

James loved yearly salmon fishing trips to "That state up north", bowling and gardening. He treasured the times spent on annual family camping trips to the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee which they have done for the last 50 years. He loved having his family around, and spent many years coaching youth baseball and attending various school events that his children participated in. A quiet man, his dry wit made people laugh.

James served honorably in the US Army reserves. He was also a member of the Loyal Order of The Moose Lodge #303 Galion. He retired from Otterbacher Manufacturing in 1999.

James is survived by his five children: Pamela (James) Simpson, of Fredericktown, Ohio; Melissa Montgomery of Warren, Michigan; Russel (Laurie) Montgomery of Galion, Ohio; Catherine Bash of Marion, Ohio; and David (Grethe) Montgomery of Vale, North Carolina. In addition to 16 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.

He is also survived by his siblings, who always referred to him as "George" because he shared George Washington's birthday. Mattie Newberry of Ashville, Ohio; Judy Markins of South Shore, Kentucky; Bill (Ramona) Montgomery of South Portsmouth, Kentucky; Eula (Dave) Durbin of Benton, Ky; Watts (Mary Jane) Montgomery of McDermott, Ohio; Bob (Linda) Montgomery of South Webster, Ohio; and Brenda (John) Darnell of Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. In addition to numerous nieces and nephews.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence M. and Ethel M. (Kibbey) Montgomery, his brothers, Alva Sutton, Virgil "Bud" Montgomery, Albin "Tom" Montgomery, Hal Montgomery and Owen R. Montgomery (Vietnam) and his sister, Maxine Potter.

Friends may call on Tuesday, March 22, 2022, from 3:00pm - 5:00pm at the Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home, 303 Portland Way North, Galion. There will be family remembrance following visitation at 5pm where friends and family can share memories of Jim. Private family graveside services will be held at a later date in Kentucky.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that you consider memorial contributions be made to the Avita Home, Health & Hospice, 1220 N. Market Street, Galion, Ohio 44833.

Those wishing to share a memory of James or send condolences to the Montgomery family may do so by visiting www.masfh.com

The Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home, 303 Portland Way North, Galion is honored to serve the family of James R. Montgomery.

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