Obituary of James O'Neal Montgomery

Age 75, of Minooka, IL, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 19, 2021, with his loving family by his side.  He was born on February 28, 1946, in Moulton, AL, to the late Lawrence and Vivian (Reeves) Montgomery. When he was around the age of 8 he relocated to the Chicago land area.

James was a dedicated employee at General Motors for 35 years. He was an accomplished musician and founder of the band, Country Affair, he sang and played the guitar.

He is survived by his children, Kelly (Kurt) Denlinger of Naperville, Mark (Katie) Montgomery of Shorewood, Lisa (Mark) Flores of Shorewood, Kristie (Steve) Papolio of Channahon, and Jennifer (Brad) Robinson of Shorewood; grandchildren, Ashley, Megan, Samantha, Michael, Adam, Alyssa, Nicholas, Christopher, and Jacob; great-grandson, Jensen; and sisters, Catherine Burgess of Moulton, AL, Eloise Jenkins of Wilmington, Shelby Brennan of Moulton, AL, and Joyce Brewington of Moulton, AL.  Several nieces and nephews

James is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 54 years, Phyllis (Spano) Montgomery (2020); his parents; and his brother, James K. “Buddy” Montgomery.

A Memorial Gathering for James O’Neal Montgomery will be held Friday, August 27, 2021, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd. (at Essington Rd.), Joliet from 2:00 p.m. until time of services at 6:00 p.m. with Rev. Jeff Clark officiating.  James and Phyllis will be interred privately at Woodlawn Memorial Park.  In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name to the American Lung Association (https://www.lung.org/) would be appreciated.

For more information please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute page where you can share a favorite memory or leave a condolence.