Thomas Purnell Montgomery

Thomas (Tom) Purnell Montgomery passed away on July 11, 2024, at the age of 80. He was born on August 31, 1943, in Leland, MS to Donnie Thelma and Henry Thomas Montgomery. He moved with this family to Las Cruces, NM at the age of six. He graduated from Las Cruces High School in 1961, then he attended New Mexico State University where he studied engineering. He was employed by the federal government for 27 years and retired from the United States Army Reserves in 2003, after 34 years of service.
Tom married the love of his life, Betty Day, on December 27, 1976. They loved to travel and visited many interesting places including all 50 states, Europe, Canada, and Mexico. They also enjoyed cruising and went on 35 cruises. They never went on a cruise they didn't like. They loved to dance and liked to host bar-b-ques and parties for friends and family. His favorite hobby was playing golf. He loved baseball and one of the highlights of his life was visiting the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York with his family.
He had a great love for animals, especially the dogs he had over the years. Donny, Bear, Tracy, Max, Maggie, and Zeus all had a special place in his heart.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents; brother; Bill Montgomery, and sister; Jane Moses.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Betty, son; John (Cindy), and granddaughter Emilyn of Allen, Texas, two sisters; Barbara Feil, husband Robert of Bronte, Texas, Cathy Keady of Granada, MS and many nieces, nephews, and special friends.
Tom was a wonderful husband, grandfather, brother, uncle and a great friend to many. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. At his request, there will not be a service. A celebration of life will be held on a later date.