She was born in Mt. Auburn, Illinois on November 18, 1924 to Chester Earl and Mae Moore Montgomery.
While growing up in Mt. Auburn which at the time had a population of 300, Leah said they would stretch how big the town was so people wouldn't think they came from a small place.
She worked at State Farm to pay her way through 3 years of college. During WWII, Leah moved to Washington D.C. to work at the Pentagon. She married her husband, George when he returned from the war and then moved to Detroit. In 1952 they had had enough of cold winters and moved to San Diego, California. Leah and George were involved in electronics during the 1960's where they built a company from scratch making memory parts for computers. After the company was sold they moved to Dallas in 1975 where they pioneered the condominium market including projects such as Preston Towers, University Gardens (now the George Bush Library), 5800 Royal Lane and Prestonwood Country Club Condominiums.
Leah loved to travel, garden and cook. Her culinary skills were always enjoyed by her family and friends.
She embodied dignity and grace throughout her life.
Survivors include her sister Betty Pallai of Kuttawa, KY and children: Joan Coleman and husband David, Jim Winans and wife Sheila, David Winans and wife Dana. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren and many nephews and nieces.
Services will be held at First United Methodist Church Richardson on July 30, 2019 at 11:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to First United Methodist Church Richardson ATTN:Caring Ministries.
Ted Dickey West Funeral Home in Dallas, Texas has charge of arrangements.
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