Eugene Montgomery passed away peacefully at the age of 93. Up until his final days, Eugene remained in high spirits and good health, leaving behind a legacy defined by laughter, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of living.

Born on May 7, 1932, in the North Hill neighborhood of Akron, Ohio, to Jeffery and Lilly Montgomery; his journey included honorable service in the U.S. Army from 1952-1953. Upon returning home, he became a fixture of the Akron workforce, working for General Tire for many years until its closure, after which he worked for Broadview Developmental Center until his well-earned retirement.

Eugene was a man of passion, especially when it came to sports. Whether it was track and field or baseball, he was an avid fan, but nothing quite matched his love for the Kentucky Derby.  On the very day Eugene was born, a horse named Burgoo King won the 58th Kentucky Derby, so it’s no surprise he had a lifelong love for the Triple Crown. When the races were on, he’d get so excited you would have thought he owned the horses himself.  While he was a fan of the LA Lakers, his relationship with the Cleveland Browns was a classic “love-hate” affair.

Despite the many changes he witnessed over 93 years, Eugene appreciated the simple things. He was a man who didn’t miss a day feeding the birds in his backyard, loved a home-cooked meal, catching up with The Boys (Henry & Sack, Jeff, and Bruce), a good bowl of ice cream, monthly lunches with The Lunch Bunch, and above all else, spending time with his family at the annual family reunions.

Eugene is survived by his devoted partner, Carilyn McEady, his children, Crystal (Rod) Golden and Kimberly (James) Wooley, his stepchildren Lewis Leon Short, Jr., Denise (Robin) Short Bryant, Lisia Short, Dierre McEady, Danielle Starns, and his grandchildren Christopher Anthony, Karen Swain, and Bernard Swain, Jr.

He joins in rest his son, Eugene Montgomery, Jr.; his brother, J.D. Montgomery; and his sisters, L.B. Pope and L.V. Alexander. He leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who will miss him dearly.

Eugene lived 93 years with his eyes wide open and his heart full. He saw the world change, but he never let the world change the kind, spirited man he was.

Family Tribute

Eugene taught us that a life well-lived isn’t measured by grand gestures, but by the consistency of kindness and the joy of the present. It was in the daily feeding of the birds, the cheering for his favorite teams, and the warmth of a home-cooked meal that he found his wealth. He leaves us with the reminder that to live long is a blessing, but to live happy is a choice.