John W. Montgomery's Obituary
John Walker Montgomery, 56, of Memphis, died Sunday, May 8, 2011, after a long illness. John graduated from White Station High School in 1973 and began his college studies at Montreat-Anderson College in Montreat, N.C. The school and its beautiful, mountainous surroundings were memories that were always special to him. He matriculated to Ole Miss where he graduated in 1977 with a degree in marketing. After college, John’s talent for selling was born. He learned the manufacturers’ rep business with his father, Robert Moss Montgomery, and eventually founded his own firm. Always passionate, John’s professional approach to selling was more than a job to him. Eventually, John became employed by one of his manufacturers, Dexter-Russell, Inc., where he was the recipient of numerous sales awards and recognitions for his accomplishments. He used every opportunity to faithfully serve his customers and develop friendships across the southeast. John was an Eagle Scout, earning that award from Troop 55 at Second Presbyterian Church. He was the embodiment of the Scout Oath and the Scout Law, doing his best to do his duty to God and country. John personified other standards, most important to him being to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with his God. A man of high principle, John’s commitment as a husband and father was unparalleled. He saw the world as his mission field, eager to bring joy to all who met him. His interests were extensive with a keen fascination of all of life. He loved singing in the choir at Independent Presbyterian Church. He was happy whether on a bicycle or in a sailboat, fishing or preparing a steak. John was famous for his hilarious stories, quick wit, and one-liners. His robust faith bravely carried him through an 18-month battle of leukemia. During that time, he consistently encouraged others and brought laughter to reign in the midst of illness. John is survived by his wife of 24 years, Suzanne Viox Montgomery and their two sons, Robert Moss Montgomery, II and Michael Viox Montgomery. In addition, he is also survived by his mother, Mrs. Robert Moss Montgomery (Mary); and two brothers, Robert W. Montgomery (Becka) and James A. Montgomery (Beverly). A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Monday, May 9, at Memorial Park Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 10, at Independent Presbyterian Church with a reception in the Fellowship Hall immediately following. The family requests in lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Independent Presbyterian Church. There is also a scholarship fund for John’s sons, Robert and Michael, checks can be made payable to Charles Schwab, 5100 Wheelis, Suite 107, Memphis, TN, 38117. Memorial Park Funeral Home, “Behind the stone wall”, 901-767-8930. Condolences may be offered at www.MemorialParkOnline.com
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