Richard Eugene Montgomery

Richard Eugene Montgomery, 86, of Flat Rock, IL, died at 9:25 p.m. (EST) on Tuesday, November 27, 2018 at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, IN. He was born June 21, 1932 in Flat Rock, the son of Charles G. Montgomery & Daisy (Hightshoe) Montgomery, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his son, Richard Eugene Montgomery, II; and by two brothers, Michael Montgomery and Ross Montgomery. He married Elsie Hanna on April 30, 1954 and she survives. He is also survived by his son, Charles “Sweet-Tater” Montgomery (Flat Rock, IL); by his two daughters & a son-in-law, Sue Hussey (Oblong, IL) and Elizabeth & Jeff Montgomery (Robinson, IL); by nine grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; as well as several nieces and nephews. Dick grew up in the Flat Rock area, where he attended school until transferring to Lawrenceville, where he graduated high school. He would proudly go on to serve his country for the next chapter of his life. From 1949-1953, he was a seaman in the U.S. Navy before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force, with whom he served from 1953 until being medically discharged as a Chief Master Sergeant in 1967. He was proud of his service, and we are all profoundly grateful for his selfless dedication to country. Following his discharge, he ran a motel and pool hall in California and also worked for a number of local businesses as well. He worked for Rocky Mountain Construction and was also a foreman for the weatherization for the elderly for Embarrass River Basin. At this point in his life, he made the decision to further his education, majoring in Computer Science in Peoria, IL. Without a doubt, his home life revolved around family, especially his grandchildren, who were the light of his life. They, as well as anyone else who were fortunate enough to know Dick, will remember a strong soul who was the glue that held his family together. A time of visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 8th at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Flat Rock. A celebration of his life will be held at 12:00 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home, where military services will be conducted by the combined units of the Scott Air Force Base Honor Guard, the Robinson V.F.W. Post #4549, the Robinson American Legion Post #69, and the Flat Rock American Legion Post #132. During the service, there will be an opportunity for friends to share their memories of Dick. Celebrant Curt Goodwine will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, with envelopes available at the funeral home.