Shirley Ann Montgomery, 83, of Cleveland, Ohio, peacefully departed this life on June 19, 2024.

Her unwavering devotion to her faith, love for God, and dedication to her family defined her life. Known for her joyful and nurturing nature, Shirley radiated positivity and warmth. Guided by the principles of love and kindness, she continuously spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ wherever she went.

Shirley Montgomery was born on May 25, 1941, in Jenkins, Kentucky, to the late Roy and Charity Gray. She enjoyed cooking, reading her Bible, listening to gospel music, and spending time with her family. Most importantly, she loved serving people, especially visiting the sick and shut in.

Shirley graduated from Dunham High School in Jenkins, Kentucky. She began her career at Westinghouse in Elmira, NY, and later pursued a career as a nurse’s aide in the neonatal unit for Cleveland Clinic. Next, she worked for General Electric Willoughby Quartz Division as a mechanic where she would later retire after 40 years of dedicated service. Her ambitions didn’t stop there. She received her certification in Biblical Studies from Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, Illinois.

Shirley was a devoted and active member of the Church of God Militant Pillar and Ground of the Truth, serving as an usher, a cook, a Sunday school teacher, highlighting the use of the “felt boards” to teach, and later on became Head of the Mother’s Board. In addition, every year she would partner with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves, making sure to sign the church up to receive Toys for Tots for the children in the neighborhood.

Shirley Ann Montgomery was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Charity Gray; beloved husband, Frederick Montgomery; three brothers, Edward Gray, William Gray, and Harold Gray; and son-in-law, Terance Lane Sr.

She is survived by one brother, Roy Gray of Ypsilanti, MI (Edna); one sister, Phyllis Smith of Bedford, Ohio (Roosevelt); daughters: Ditonya Lane of Cleveland, Ohio (Terance), Aiesha Walker of Nashville, TN. (Thomas Jr), Mary Morgan of Cleveland, Ohio. Six grandchildren: Terance Lane Jr., Keven Lane, Laseana Lane, Brandon Davids, Gabrielle Davids, and Thomas Tate III, five great-grandchildren: Qhloe Lane, Legend Lane, Collin Lane, Lincoln Lane, and Grayson Jones; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.