Ralph William Montgomery, beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away peacefully at the age of 90. Born in Aurora, Illinois, on August 13, 1935, to Ralph and Hazel Montgomery, Ralph’s life was defined by his love of music and devotion to family and faith.

Raised in Cincinnati, he discovered his lifelong passion for music early, mastering the trumpet and performing with distinction throughout his youth. His talent carried him to the US Army Band and New York City where he performed on dozens of episodes of television shows including The Ed Sullivan and Arlene Francis shows. After his service in the Army he attended the Eastman School of Music, where he earned his degree and was awarded the Performer’s Certificate. He then began a career that would span four decades of teaching and performance. Ralph played with symphonies across the country, and inspired generations of students through his work at The University of Arkansas, Florida State University, Campbell University, and Greenville University, where he chaired the music department and helped establish a pioneering program in Contemporary Christian Music.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ralph was a man of deep faith.

He was devoted to Mitzi, his wife of 63 years, and their three sons, Robert, Ronald (Roxamei), and Randall (Julie). He cherished his role as grandfather to Austin, Lauren, Ryan, Morgan, Alexandra, Sophia, Jacob, Caitlin, and Micah; and great-grandfather to Simon, Elliott, Isaac, and Poppy.

Ralph’s legacy lives on in the music he composed and performed, the countless students he mentored, and the family he loved so dearly.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. with a service at 2:00 p.m. at EverTrue Meridian Village Chapel, 27 Auerbach Place, Glen Carbon, IL 62034.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Greenville University Music Department or the Fayco Enterprises Fillmore House. They will be received at Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.