Elsie Colleen Montgomery

Elsie Montgomery, 89, of Flat Rock, IL, passed away on Friday, July 19, 2024, at Robinson Rehab & Nursing. She was born on January 17, 1935, in Hotchkiss, CO. Growing up, she attended a Catholic school, a foundation that would inform her compassionate spirit throughout her life. One day at the age of 19, fate led her to a local skating rink where she met Richard "Dick" Montgomery, a serviceman stationed nearby. Their whirlwind romance led to their marriage just 30 days later, on April 30, 1954. Together, they embarked on a life of adventure, traversing from base to base until Dick's retirement. In 1974, they settled back into civilian life in Flat Rock, IL, where they would continue to nurture their growing family.

Professionally, Elsie was a woman of many talents. She and Dick managed a Best Western in Auburn, CA, before returning to his old stomping grounds in Illinois. Here, she worked for Crawford Electronics and later provided home health care, becoming a beloved caretaker to many in the area. Her work ethic was unparalleled, and her dedication to supporting her family was evident in everything she did. After all, Elsie's life was marked by her unwavering devotion to her loved ones. She was a mother, first and foremost, with every fiber of her being dedicated to the well-being of her children and grandchildren. Her family was her pride and joy, and she was their steadfast advocate and protector.

An exceptional cook, Elsie was known for her ability to create delicious meals that brought everyone together, especially on weekends. Her home was a sanctuary where all were welcome, and she had the remarkable gift of never meeting a stranger. Elsie's kindness extended beyond her human connections to a deep love for animals. Her home was a sanctuary for creatures great and small, each finding a place in her heart. The loss of her dog, Patches, was a profound sorrow, but she found comfort in her surviving cat, Gracie. Despite life's challenges, Elsie's spirit remained unbreakable. She taught her children about love, gentleness, and compassion through her actions and the warmth of her heart. Her resilience was a cornerstone of her character, and even when the going got tough, Elsie's strength and ability to forgive shone through.

She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and sewing, leaving behind a legacy of handmade treasures. She was also a voracious reader, indulging in everything from romance novels to history books. When she lost her sight, it was a deep loss, and in her final years, dementia presented a new battle. Yet even as her memories faded, the love Elsie shared with so many remained a guiding light. Now that her light has gone out, the afterglow of her memory will continue to inspire and comfort all who knew her.

She is lovingly remembered by her son, Charles Montgomery (Flat Rock, IL); by her two daughters & a son-in-law, Sue Hussey (Flat Rock, IL) and Elizabeth & Jeffrey Montgomery (Robinson, IL); by nine grandchildren, Jarod, Jade, Keith, Kennedy, Jessie, Amber, Katelyn, Heather, and Michael; by several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; by her brothers, Larry and Bob; and by several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Glenn & Frances (McFarland) Hannah; by her husband of 64 years, Dick Montgomery; by her son, Richard Eugene Montgomery II; and by seven siblings.

A time of visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 24th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Flat Rock. A celebration of her life will immediately follow and be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the "Alzheimer's Association" with envelopes available at the funeral home.