Charles L. "Smoky" Montgomery

To say Charles 'Smoky' Montgomery was a legend in the music retail industry in the Fort Wayne, Indiana area would be an understatement. Charles was an astute businessman, fully dedicated to the Popular music industry and was a living encyclopedia to all that needed to be known in the world of Popular music. Although Smoky made it a solid point to be cordial and welcoming to all of his customers, he always had a plan for appropriately dealing with any riff-raff or unruly customers who might...

I heard years later you had passed away. I wish I had known. You knew me since i was a baby. Lots of memories of going for records. My group in high school did 3 charity shows for you. What fun! I will always remember you. Rest in peace.

I grew up a block from Smoky's record shop on Wells St. The record store was a marvel and a fantasyland of my childhood. I'd browse for hours with Smoky, his clerk, and customers chatting in the background. It's a happy memory, because I never felt unwelcome to be there, despite the relatively small amount I spent in there, dreaming of music and singers.

I feel the same way as the family, can't believe it's been a year already. Take care.

September 16, 2007

It has been a year...still hard to believe...even more difficult to comprehend...we miss you Smoky-Charlie-Dad!
Thanks to all for your kind rememberences.

Smoky was such an influence in my life. He and my mother (Lois Gardiner) became friends in the mid 70's back when I was still in highschool. He encouraged Mom to participate in so many different activities including Toastmasters, Parlementarians and the Democratic Lunch Club. He even recruited me to help host the dances at 1st Wayne St. church for the kids from State School.
Smoky went on to offer our sister in law, Karen, a job after her baby Brian was born. Brian, now an attorney in...

Smoky was the most caring, supportive person I have ever met. As a member of his toastmaster club, we shared many fun times together. Smoky's zest for life and ability to find ways to help people reach their potential is a quality that few people have. He will be missed.

Fort Wayne has lost a legacy, and Smoky will certainly be missed. Deepest sympathy to the family.

Dear Friends and Family of my old friend, Smoky.

Smoky was one of the most loyal people I've known, and that includes a lot of folks over the years.

He also was on my list of the 10 most memorable people I've ever known. This town will never be the same without the "Mayor of Wells St."

I will miss the TV show, the various projects Smoky stood behind, and the friendly encounters at the record shop.

Goodbye, my old friend!

Ron Gregory