Wesley Victor Montgomery

MONTGOMERY Wesley Victor Montgomery passed away on Tuesday, May 24, 2011. Born December 7, 1968 in Duarte, CA, his life's work was centered in the arts, culture and social justice. Wesley held positions as Director of Education for New York City's New Victory Theater; Managing Director of New WORLD Theater at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst; and Chief Operating Officer for the National Performance Network, based in New Orleans. He also served on the boards of directors of the National Performance Network, Amherst a Better Chance, ArtSpot Productions and the NAMES Project. Wesley became a vibrant part of the art and cultural community in New Orleans, a city that he loved, and was a member of the Original Big 7 Social Aid and Pleasure Club. He leaves a legacy of artistry and excellence, and an indelible mark on the lives he touched as advocate, mentor, brother and friend. Wesley was preceded in death by his father, Edgar Henry Montgomery, Jr., his mother, MaryAnn Victoria Johnson Montgomery, and his brother, Gregory Johnson. He is survived by brothers: Darrell, Edgar, Peter and Paul Montgomery; sisters: Sheryl, Janyce and Stephany Montgomery; sisters: Apryl Leighton, Crystal McGee and Leanne Lewis; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family and friends across the United States and abroad. A celebration of Wesley's life will take place on Saturday, May 28, 2011 at 1:00 PM, Ashé Cultural Arts Center, 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard, New Orleans. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Porch Cultural Organization through its fiscal sponsorship partner; checks should be made directly to the National Performance Network, PO Box 56698, New Orleans, LA 70156, indicating "Porch" on the memo line. The family wishes to extend its thanks to the caregivers at River Region Hospice.