Mary Alice Montgomery, 87, a longtime resident of Wheaton and later of Carol Stream, passed away on Monday, May 29 in Wheaton at the Wynscape Nursing Home, where she had been residing since September 2003. Her father, Ralph B. Grove and mother, Alice E. (nee Hitchcock) Grove lived in Chicago and preceded her in death. Mary Alice was married to F.H. "Monty" Montgomery who was employed by Wheaton College Custodial Department at the time of his retirement. They had been married 42 years at the time of Monty's death in 1990. Mary Alice worked for Pioneer Ministries for approximately 20 years, the later years as receptionist.
Mary Alice was preceded in death by her four brothers, Harold, Paul, Rod, and Don. Surviving are two daughters, Linda (Dick) Loescher and Carol (Jim) Linane, six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
A member of College Church since 1935, Mary Alice served as a Sunday School teacher and was very active in the Women's Missionary Society, faithfully writing to many of the church's missionaries on a regular basis.
After Monty's death in 1990, Mary Alice renewed her interest in poetry and began writing in "free verse" form. She has written many poems, several of which have been published. Countless people have been touched by the inspiration and reflection of her devout faith which is evidenced in her poetry.
A memorial service celebrating the life of Mary Alice will be held on Sunday, June 4 at 4:30 p.m. at College Church in Wheaton, Washington and Seminary St. in Wheaton. Interment is private.
Per her request, memorials may be directed to the College Church Mission Fund, 332 E. Seminary Ave., Wheaton, IL 60187.
Information and guest book are available at hultgrenfh.com or call Hultgren Funeral Home in Wheaton at 630-668-0027.