John William Montesi, Jr.'s Obituary
John William Montesi, Jr. died on November 5, at his home, surrounded by his loved ones. He leaves his wife of 31 years, Blanche Butler Montesi, and his two daughters, Dr. Sydney Montesi of Boston, MA and Blanche Montesi of Wheaton, IL. He also leaves his two brothers, Fred Montesi III of Memphis, TN and Terry Montesi of Ft. Worth, Texas. He dearly loved his two brother-in-laws, Landon Butler and Sydney Butler, both of Washington, D.C.; as well as his nieces, nephews, and sisters-in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Londena Montesi.John attended St. Dominic School, Christian Brothers High School, Vanderbilt University, and received his masters in business from Souhthern Methodist University.He served on the boards of Hutchison School, Christian Brothers University, The Community Foundation of Greater Memphis, and The Neighborhood Christian Center. Under the leadership of Dr. Joe Ann Ballard, John treasured his work at the Neighborhood Christian Center for over twenty years.In 1985 John was one of the founding partners of Financial Federal Savings Bank. He served as Chairman of Financial Federal until his health prevented his return. John dearly loved the friends with whom he worked at Financial Federal and felt as if they were his family. He was especially grateful to his partner and friend, Kent Wunderlich, for leading the bank in his absence.Most of all, John loved his Lord and lived everyday for His glory. Those close to John knew him to be soft spoken with a loving heart for anyone in need.John’s wife and daughters would like to express their gratitude to all the doctors, family members, and friends who have supported him these last six years as he valiantly battled against brain cancer. He was not defeated, but instead he triumphed in his fight with dignity and strength.In lieu of flowers the family requests that any memorials be sent to the Neighborhood Christian Center, 785 Jackson Ave., Memphis, TN 38107 or to the charity of the donor’s choice. Memorial Park has charge of the visitation on Friday, November 6, from 4-7 pm in the Riverside Chapel. They also have charge of the private funeral and burial service for the immediate family.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?