Paul Montgomery

Born on May 27, 1951, in Edmonson, Arkansas, to Charles and Pearl Montgomery, he was a beloved son, father, grandfather, brother, craftsman, and friend whose life was marked by faith, family, hard work, and an extraordinary gift for creating beautiful things with his hands.

At the age of 15, he gave his life to Christ and became a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Edmonson, Arkansas. He was a graduate of Wonder High School and later attended AM&N College. As a young adult, he relocated to Chicago, Illinois, where he joined several of his siblings and began building a life through hard work and determination. While in Chicago, he attended the University of Illinois Chicago and Olson Woodwork, where he developed and refined his skills as a carpenter. Through his dedication to his craft, he became a certified carpenter. His workmanship can be found throughout several high-rise buildings in downtown Chicago, including buildings along Michigan Avenue.

He had a true passion for building and creating. He made furniture, structures, and all kinds of beautiful and useful wooden accessories. His craftsmanship became a treasured part of the family, and many family members continue to hold and cherish pieces of his work in their homes—a lasting reminder of his talent, creativity, and love.

After many years in Chicago, he returned to his hometown of Edmonson, Arkansas, for retirement. In his retirement years, with the blessing and permission of his siblings, he built his own home, from the ground up, on the family's land.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Montgomery and Pearl Montgomery; his sisters, Thelma Muhammad and Catherine Montgomery; and his brothers, Charles Montgomery, Jr. and Willie C. Montgomery.
He leaves to cherish his memory two daughters, Shari Montgomery and Jennifer Dupree Smith (Clifford); his grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; his brother, Henry Igess, Jr.; and his three sisters, Palmer Montgomery, Pearl Montgomery, and Charlene Montgomery. He also leaves behind nieces and nephews, extended family and friends, whose lives were touched by his presence, generosity, faith, and remarkable craftsmanship.