Christopher Robert Montgomery – Feb. 4
Christopher R. Montgomery, longtime resident of Pelham, passed away on February 4 at age 78. A Vietnam Veteran, Chris can be described as a community warrior who constantly gave of himself to anyone who needed him. He served people who were less fortunate than himself. His community service extended far and wide. He was treasurer for Meals on Wheels, past president and treasurer of the Rotary Club of The Pelhams, and treasurer of the Pelham Chamber of Commerce.
Chris graduated from Pelham Memorial High School and New York University where he earned his degree in accounting and received his CPA license. He was an officer in the U.S. Navy and served as a defense courier during the Vietnam War. He moved to San Francisco to begin his accounting career and returned to Pelham to start his own firm in 1988. Chris was treasurer of Beechwoods Cemetery and Auditor of the Village of Pelham Manor.
Chris is predeceased by his parents, Robert F. Montgomery (1994) and Anne F. Montgomery (2004), and brother Stephen (1986). He is survived by brothers Clinton Montgomery of Albuquerque, NM, Robert Montgomery of Portland, Maine, and sister Tracey M. Clothier of Lake George, NY. Additional family members include, Margaret Montgomery of Hershey, PA, Matthew Montgomery of Albuquerque, Tom Montgomery of Chicago, Sierra, Megan and Tyler Clothier of Lake George, and Spencer Montgomery of Chicago. He is also survived by his longtime love, Valerie Jablonski of Queens.
Chris was well known for his sense of humor, empathy, kindness, and generosity. He sought to make everyone he met feel special. Chris also loved history and had strong connection to The Pelhams like his grandfather William R. Montgomery, who was Historian of the Town of Pelham during the 1920s and 1930s. He was a voracious reader spending endless time at New Rochelle Library. Glen Island was one of his favorite places for a good long walk.
A memorial service for Chris will be scheduled at a later date when it is safe to gather in person. Arrangements are through the Pelham Funeral Home. Chris requested contributions be made in his name to “Community Service Associates, Inc.” (soup kitchen) in Mount Vernon, and “My Sister’s Place” in White Plains.
Editor’s note: This obituary was provided by the Pelham Funeral Home.
VALERIE JABLONSKI • Feb 12, 2021 at 2:18 pm
I so apologize that when we wrote the obituary we omitted his role as Treasurer of the Pelham Seniors. I know he was involved on a volunteer basis for a number of years, and spoke often of the fun he had at the meetings. Wishing all of you well.
On a separate note, thanks for remembering his participation in the American Legion
Rich Zahradnik • Feb 8, 2021 at 12:05 pm
A full obituary has now been published.
Dawn Vetrano • Feb 8, 2021 at 10:21 am
Chris was a veteran of the US Navy in naval intelegence.
He graduated from Pelham Memorial High School in 1960 or 1961. He was a member of the American Legion.Chris was an accountant for many Pelham organizations. He will be missed.
Maria Camacho • Feb 7, 2021 at 9:48 pm
Chris you will be missed. My condolences to his family.
Anna Perna • Feb 7, 2021 at 8:03 pm
Chris was also a member of the Pelham Seniors and was our treasurer. He will be missed . Ann Perna, President of the Pelham Seniors.