Joe Montgomery

Joe was someone who could provide the discipline we all needed, but you also knew he was a compassionate friend of the students. It was the privilege of the Class of '61 to have him as our guest of honor at our 50th reunion in 2011. Even at the age of 93 he had us in stitches with his story about a student trying to get his bottle of booze back after Joe had taken into custody. What a grand man!

Dear Julie, Marilyn and families, your









Dear Julie, Marilyn and families, I wish you peace, comfort and pathways of sunshine as you fondly relive memories of your Dad and Mom. I treasure the memories of my visits to your home when I taught with Julie. Love, laughter and happiness always reined!

Mr. Montgomery was a good man and a great principal. I'm another of the AHS "50's kids" (Jackie Sherriff) who has nothing but fond memories of him. Sincere sympathy to his family; what a wonderful legacy he leaves.

Julie and Family,
I am so sorry to read of your father's death. Though I did not know him, I did learn of his contributions to education and his reputation. You are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

A life well lived! He touched so many in his kind and gentle way. I'm so glad the Class of '61 was able to honor him at our 50th reunion in 2011.

I worked for the ASD when Joe Montgomery was superintendent. His good character was so inspiring that I wrote a poem about him way back then and recently ran across a picture of him standing with me while I was cutting my going away cake - back in 1972. To his girls, our deepest sympathy. We may have lost a wise man but memories of his charm will stay in our hearts.

Joe and Ebba were our best friends forever. Joe was best man at our wedding (Cliff Hartman & Shirley Lewis) in 1975. I have wonderful memories of their friendship. After Cliff died in 1999 and later Ebba did, too, Joe & I talked on the phone occasionally. I visited them for the last time in July 2007 when I was in Anchorage for my step son's marriage (Chad Hartman). In addition to his career and community accomplishments, Joe was a wonderful, kind and caring friend. I will miss him. My...

One of the great influences in my life that got me into the business of School Superintendent was Joe Montgomery. As a young Superintendent in the troubled Nome School District, Joe took me under his wing. Many conversations with him in person and via phone got me through those first years of my career as an Alaskan School Superintendent. He was the best, most ideal mentor and example for younger administrators to emulate. I have often caught myself asking, "What would Joe Montgomery say...

Joe Montgomery was a gentle and affable friend to an army of AHS students and graduates who loved him in return. We always appreciated his honoring class reunions by attending them, and would actually line up to greet our elder statesman educator. Rest in peace, Joe. We won't forget you.

Dale Sellin
Seattle