Emily J. Montgomery
It is with great sadness yet joy that we announce the passing of Emily J. Montgomery (1925-2022), long-time resident of Decatur, Arkansas and beloved Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother and Great Great Grandmother. On July 27 she went to be with the Lord and share the joys of heaven with her Savior.
Originally from Staten Island, NY, Emily moved to Texas with her husband Billy Bob Montgomery (1921-1964). On the advice of Bill’s doctors to relocate to the climate of Northwest Arkansas to help him recover from wounds suffered in the military, they moved to Decatur in 1951. After 22 years of marriage, Emily was widowed in 1964 and raised her nine children on her own. Her parents helped by moving to Decatur soon after her husband’s death. She instilled a strong work ethic, patriotism and faith not only in all her own children, but also in many of those from our community for whom she was babysitter. She was very active in the Eastern Star, becoming the Worthy Matron (presiding officer).
Emily is survived by seven of her nine children: Melvin Montgomery and wife Gerry of 29 Palms, CA; Diane Reyes and husband Mike of Bentonville, AR; Betty Clement Wilson and husband James of Neosho, MO; Ranet Lapham and husband Trip of Decatur AR; Marilyn Kitchens and husband Mark of Puerto Morelos, Mexico; Carol Hedrick and David of
Centerton, AR; and Valerie Brendel and husband Randall of Goodman, MO.
Preceding Emily in death were daughter Janet Yates and son Bill Montgomery, as well as her parents Raymond & Emily Connett, three brothers and one sister. She is also survived by dozens and dozens of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Services are pending and will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are with Benton County Memorial Park Funeral Home of Rogers.
PAID OBITUARY