He was born June 29, 1939, in Somerville, Tennessee to Ruby and Joe Montague. His youth was spent in Memphis where he received a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Memphis, and a Doctorate of Law from the University of Memphis Law School. He was qualified to teach law and practiced personal injury law for over 50 years.
He married Gwendolyn "Gwen" Woods in 1962 and they were married for nearly 60 years. In 1966, he and Gwen were blessed with the birth of Gordon who was the greatest joy of their lives. John established the "Memphis Music Hall of Fame" which was a great success and later became the Stax Complex.
Also, he created Gentlemen's Antiques in Memphis and Holly Springs Antiques in Holly Springs, Mississippi. He was a knowledgeable antique collector and was consulted by Antiques Roadshow on artifacts. He also loved beautiful flowers, especially gardenias and grew big blossoms. John was a great caretaker of his family and saw that they were well-provided for with things they loved. He also took care of stray animals.
He leaves his wife Gwen and son Gordon as well as nieces and nephews. He loved his great pyrenees dog, "Lilly" very much.
Services will be conducted by the Rev. Russell Galimore of Jackson, Tennessee. Visitation will be held on Friday, July 8, 2022 beginning at 1:00 PM, at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Avenue. The funeral will commence at 2:00 PM, at the funeral home. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.
Memorials can be directed to the Memphis Humane Society at 935 Farm Road, Memphis, Tennessee 38134-9911.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MemphisFuneralPoplar.com for the Montague family.
