1929 – 2003

RUMFORD – James E. “Jim” Montgomery, 73, of Rumford, died Sunday morning, May 25, at his residence of over 47 years. He had most recently fought a four-year battle with liver cancer. He decided it was time for him to rest and that he would do so on his own terms and at a time of his choosing. As was his wish, he was in the company of family and friends and fond memories echoed through his home.

He was born in Rumford on July 21, 1929. He was the son of James and Davina Lees Montgomery. He was educated in local schools, and graduated from Mexico High School in 1946. He was treasurer for his class reunion committee from 1951 until 2003.

He married Lorraine Ross on Oct. 9, 1950.

He was employed by the Oxford Paper Company and concurrently employed as an assessor for the Town of Rumford for 12 years. Jim was also active in sales for the John Shea Real Estate Agency and he worked part-time for the Meader and Son Funeral Home.

On the day of his passing, many friends visited his home. Lifelong friendships brought him much enjoyment and were part of his being, all should know that Jim is smiling now and comforted to know those friendships have survived him.

He retired from his employment pursuits due to poor health in 1972. Strength and courage have many definitions. In 1972, Jim was diagnosed with terminal esophageal cancer and given six months to live. In 1999 after successfully defeating colon cancer, he was diagnosed with terminal liver cancer and given 12 months to live. Six months became an additional life of more than 31 years. Twelve months became more than four years of quality life. Strength and courage were re-defined by this Scotsman.

He had many social pursuits. He was a life member of the Elk’s Club. He was a Charter Member of the St. Andrew’s Society of Maine. He was a past Society Treasurer and Maine Highland Games Chairperson for the St. Andrew’s Society of Maine. He was a Charter Member of Clan Montgomery Society International. He was Regional Vice President of the Northeast for Clan Montgomery Society International.

He gave his time, his guidance and financial support to the perpetuation of his Scottish Heritage. His parents and his brother were born in Scotland. He was his family’s first generation in this country. He never visited his family’s homeland, but on a cold and rainy day in Rumford on May 25, 2003, a wee bit of Scotland came to him.

He is survived by Lorraine, his wife of more than 52 years; his son, Robert James Montgomery and his fiancee Kimberly A. Cairns and her sons, Joseph and Michael; and his beloved grand-cats.

He was predeceased by his parents; and his dearly loved and missed brother, David Montgomery.