Thomas C. Montanye, a resident of Binghamton, NY, passed away after a valiant almost eight year battle with brain cancer on January 16, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on April 25, 1947, Thomas proudly served his country with two tours in Vietnam as an Army veteran. After active duty, he continued to serve in the Army Reserves until his retirement. He pursued a career in telecommunications, a craft he learned during his military service, and worked at Frontier Communications until he retired.
Thomas’s joy came in many forms, his family among the top. He considered himself blessed when he found his wife Xaio Lan Montanye, and bless her heart, she supported him for 34 years. Aside from his wife, his daughters, grandchildren and Harley’s were his most cherished obsessions.
He could often be found in the early morning hours at the local diners, helping out and cracking jokes. Never one for sitting still, he was regularly on the move with his various clubs and organizations. If he got bored it wasn’t out of the ordinary for him to show up unannounced on your doorstep, whether you were nearby or hundreds of miles away.
Thomas is survived by his wife, Xaio Lan Montanye; daughter Lynn Montanye; grandsons, Thomas R. Montanye and Levi M. Lujan; sisters, Jean & Michael Bodasarian, Joyce Montanye, and Peggy Asma; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Elwood & Eileen Montanye; his daughter, Nicole Montanye; and brother-in-law, Paul Asma.
Thomas will be remembered for many things, his overwhelming presence, his big heart, dedication to family, willingness to lend a hand, popping up randomly unexpectedly and his vigorous dedication to veterans.
There will be a Celebration of Life at Wm. R. Chase & Son Funeral Home, 737 Chenango Street, Port Dickinson on Saturday, January 24, 2026. Share stories, meet family, have coffee from 8:30am-9:30am and stay for the Memorial Service at 9:30am. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery.
