Grace Evelyn Lyon Montgomery, born on January 8, 1936, in Pontotoc, Mississippi, passed away peacefully at home on December 30, 2024. She was the beloved daughter of Robert Leslie Lyon and Margaret Catherine Pitts Lyon and one of six siblings.
Grace attended the University of Mississippi where she was a member of Delta Gamma social sorority, and she remained an avid Rebel fan. She married Elton (Butch) Lane Montgomery on July 27, 1957. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and cherished traditions. Grace dedicated over 30 years to teaching with the majority of her time in Memphis at Sherwood Elementary School, leaving a lasting impact on countless students.
An avid athlete, Grace excelled in tennis and later embraced pickleball with enthusiasm. Her competitive spirit earned her numerous tournament USTA tennis titles and multiple state and national Senior Games championships in both sports. Beyond her athletic achievements, Grace was a devoted member of Independent Presbyterian Church, where she found joy singing in the choir and being active in the IPC Women’s Bible Study.
Grace had a gift for bringing people together. She loved the annual family reunion at John Kyle State Park in Sardis, Mississippi. Many tennis, fishing, and boating memories were made during these reunions. She also loved hosting Sunday lunches and family holiday gatherings, earning her the affectionate title of “hostess extraordinaire.” Her warmth and hospitality created treasured memories for all who knew her.
She is survived by her two daughters, Carole Montgomery Russell (Greg) and Mary Catherine Montgomery Boyd (David); six grandchildren: Megan Russell Ford (Cim), Grace Anne Boyd, Sarah Russell Maxwell (Colby), Morgan Russell Mathis (Douglas), Allison Boyd Walker (Will), and David Boyd Jr.; and three great-grandchildren: Parker Campbell Ford, Peyton Layne Ford, and Raymond Douglas Mathis III. Grace faithfully prayed for each of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She attended countless recitals, sporting events, school and church events in support of those she loved.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Elton (Butch) Lane Montgomery, two sisters Mary Rowland Lyon Bass and Maude Francis Lyon Knox and three brothers, Robert Leslie Lyon II, Fred Carroll Lyon and Doyle Franklin Lyon.
Grace’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to family and friends will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Grace’s name could not have been more fitting for her personality and countenance. May her memory bring comfort to all who were blessed to share in her remarkable life.
A private graveside service will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at the Pontotoc City Cemetery with Rev. Ronnie Rowe officiating. Browning Funeral Home is honored to assist the Montgomery family with the arrangements.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, January 6, 2025 at Independent Presbyterian Church at 4738 Walnut Grove Road in Memphis, Tennessee. Visitation will begin at 1:00 with the service following at 2:00. A reception will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Independent Presbyterian Church, Music Department, 4738 Walnut Grove Road, Memphis, TN 38117.
Condolences may be offered at www.browningpontotoc.com
