William Campbell Montgomery

Bill was born to William Montgomery and Luella Yox in Eden, NY and was the middle child of siblings Marjorie, Marion, Beverly and Bob (Robert) Montgomery. Bill moved from upstate New York to Long Beach, California when he was 14 and graduated from Poly High School in 1965. He was drafted for the Vietnam war and served in the 198th Light Infantry Brigade from 1967-68. Although he was known by some as “Wild Bill: the best damn M60 man the 198th L.I.Brigade ever had”, he was often heard saying “There ain’t nothing good about war.”

Bill married once to Janice Lynn Bagby and together they had one daughter, Jessica Michelle Montgomery, who he dedicated his life and love to. They spent countless weekends together enjoying beach days, road trips, friends, family and adventures around the world. No matter where she was, Bill was notorious for showing up unexpectedly to celebrate Jessica, her many endeavors, and their eclectic group of friends. Everybody loved Papa Bill and he loved a good party, a cold beer and a gaggle of great people.

Bill moved to Maine about 20 years ago to enjoy the beauty and quiet of New England. He helped raise his two grandsons, Levi and Dylan Windsor, and was like a father to Jessica’s husband Mike. Bill was a unique, funny, artistically brilliant person with a great sense of humor. He was patient, kind and will be GREATLY missed for his smile, his laugh, his style and his gentle-yet-giant ways.

Bill’s family plans to hold two Celebration of Life ceremonies: one in Buffalo, NY on Sunday, February 16, 2025 and one in California during the month of April, 2025. Please contact Jessica directly for more details.

Thank you for being a part of Bill’s wonderful life!