Gloria Montgomery

Gloria Montgomery, age 75, of Brinkley, passed away Sunday, January 7, 2024 at her home. She was the first child of William and Katie Andrews and was born on September 12, 1948 in Helena. She received her early education at Beech Crest Elementary and graduated Central High School in 1966. She chose to continue her studies at Ouachita Baptist University for two years.

In September of 1967, during her second year of college she met Ron Montgomery. The courtship would last only 11 months before they made the choice of a lifetime commitment and married on July 27, 1968 at the West Helena Baptist Church. They made their home in different places that included Smackover, West Helena and Forrest City before moving to Brinkley, where they remained. Gloria and Ron shared in the memories of raising two children in the home and the joys of welcoming the births of five grandchildren.

Gloria led a life of service both in her professional and personal capacities. She worked as a bank teller at the Bank of Brinkley for 15 years, and always greeted everyone with a smile before stepping away from public work to retire. She was active in the community as a member of the Lions Club, serving as Past President and District Governor for District 7N. She held other offices through the years in both Brinkley and the District, and also as a Past President of Brinkley Gli Amici.

She attended the West Helena Baptist Church during her childhood and in June of 1958 at the age of 11, she was baptized. For 44 years she has been an active member of the Brinkley First Baptist Church, where she faithfully taught Sunday School for First, Second, and Third Grade Classes.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, William and Katie (Goodnight) Andrews; and her brother, William “Bubba” Andrews. She is survived by her husband, Ron Montgomery; son, Drew (Lauri) Montgomery; daughter, Rhonda (Monty) Thornton; and five grandchildren, Makayla Roberson (Lance), Cullin Thornton, Addison Montgomery, Bridgette Thornton and Gracie Gilmer.

Funeral service was Thursday, January 11 at the Brinkley First Baptist Church with Bro. Joe Garner officiating. Interment was in Memorial Park Cemetery at Brinkley by Bob Neal & Sons Funeral Home of Brinkley. Pallbearers were Bob Kemmer, Joe Griggs, Mark Hamner, Lance Roberson, Cullin Thornton, and Leslie Brown.