Obituary: William Montgomery, 76, of Ludington

Bill Montgomery

William “Bill” Frederick Montgomery, 76, of Ludington, passed away on Wednesday, July 3, 2024. Bill was born on October 13, 1947, the son of Ralph and Elizabeth (Sellers) Montgomery. He was a proud graduate of Spring Lake High School and later earned an associate degree in criminal justice from West Shore Community College. On August 19, 1978, Bill married the love of his life, Pamela E. (Bearss) Montgomery.

Bill honorably served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He was stationed both in Vietnam and Hawaii, dedicating his service to his country with the courage and resilience that defined his character.

After his military service, Bill embarked on a meaningful career as a corrections officer at Oaks Correctional Facility in Manistee, from which he retired in 2001. His dedication to maintaining safety and order in the community was deeply respected by his colleagues and those he supervised.

A devout member of St. Simon Catholic Church, Bill’s faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding him through his service, career, and personal endeavors. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, fly tying, and building fishing rods. Bill cherished these activities not only for the skills they required but also for the opportunity they provided to spend quality time with his family and friends, sharing stories and creating memories.

Bill is survived by his wife, Pamela E. (Bearss) Montgomery; daughter, Dr. Sarah E. (Dennis Richards) Montgomery-Richards and their children, Aidan, Davis, and Eileen; sons, Jeremiah M. (Lisa) Montgomery and their children, Connor, Gavin, and Hunter, Adam J. (Dr. Victoria) Montgomery and their children, Eleanor and James, and Cory J. (Amanda) Gahsman and their children Chase, Delaney, and Flynn; sisters, Marilyn (Montgomery) O’Leary, Jackie (Montgomery) Taylor, Sydelle (Montgomery) Randalls; and brother, Dr. Glen Bishop.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Elizabeth Montgomery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Ludington Area Catholic Foundation in memory of Bill.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 2 p.m. at St. Simon Catholic Church. Visitation will be held at 1 p.m. before the Holy Mass. Bill will be laid to rest at Pere Marquette Catholic Cemetery in Pere Marquette Township with military honors.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington, www.oakgroveludington.com.