John Field Montgomery Jr.

John Field Montgomery, Jr. February 19, 1937 – November 12, 2024 John Field Montgomery, Jr., lovingly known as Field to all who knew him, passed away on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at the age of 87. Field was preceded in death by his parents, John Field Montgomery, Sr. and Coralie Gilfoil Montgomery, as well as his sister, Garnet Montgomery Watts. He is survived by his beloved partner and soulmate, Cynthia Smith; his devoted son, John Field Montgomery III, and daughter-in-law, Kim Montgomery; his loving daughter, Lynne Montgomery Adkins, and son-in-law, Clay Adkins; and his cherished grandchildren, Carly Montgomery, Madison Montgomery, Cole Adkins, and Mackenzie Adkins. He is also survived by many loving family members, including nieces, nephews, and extended relatives. Field was born in Bastrop, Louisiana, and grew up in Tallulah, Louisiana. He graduated from Tallulah High School, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Louisiana Polytechnic Institute, and completed a Master of Hospital Administration at Duke University. Field enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a hospital administrator. He began as an Assistant Administrator at Moses-Cone Hospital in Greensboro, North Carolina, before taking on a similar role at Murray-Calloway County Hospital in Murray, Kentucky. Field and his young family later relocated back to North Carolina, where he was named Director of Cherry Hospital, a state-operated psychiatric institution in Goldsboro. He served in this role for 25 years, leaving a lasting impact on the institution, its mission, and the community it served. He retired in 1997. In retirement, Field relocated to Easley, South Carolina, where he and Cynthia enjoyed a fulfilling life together. Field spent many years on the competitive BBQ circuit, earning multiple awards and gaining recognition for his exceptional skills and recipes. A lifelong hobbyist, Field enjoyed playing golf and sharing his passion for an endless number of unique hobbies and interests. Field was an extraordinary father and grandfather whose love, wisdom, and unwavering support formed the foundation of his family. He was deeply involved in his children’s and grandchildren’s lives—whether celebrating their successes, offering his steady guidance, or creating joyful memories. His warmth and boundless pride in his family will remain one of his most treasured legacies. A private service will be held at a later date, and Field will be laid to rest next to his parents at Memorial Park in Tallulah. His kindness, leadership, and devotion to his family will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Donations may be made to: Volunteer Services - Cherry Hospital 1401 West Ash Street Goldsboro, NC 27530 Checks payable to Volunteer Services – Giving for Growth

John Field Montgomery Jr.

February 19, 1937 - November 12, 2024