Daryl Jay Montgomery

Daryl Jay Montgomery moved to his Heavenly home on December 8, 2024. Daryl fought an amazing fight to beat his 2020 lymphoma diagnosis. Despite his hard-fought battle, the toll on him was too great. His battle and steadfast faith set an incredible example for all who knew him.

Daryl’s life began on October 25, 1957, in Seminole, Texas. Born the second child of Jack Monroe Montgomery and Olene Marie Dozier Montgomery, he was little brother to sister, Kathy. Though the youngest, he was a born leader and protector. People all throughout his life drifted toward the solace his protectiveness provided.

Daryl graduated from Clinton High School in 1976 and went on to Hinds Community College where he earned an associate degree in Electronic Technology. While there he was a member of the Eagles Cheer Squad that allowed him to meet a beautiful basketball star and love of his life, Daphne Ann Benson Montgomery. They were married on July 3, 1978. This precious union held strong for 46 years. The two have 3 children—Perry Jay, Anna Marie, and Tonya Lea that they raised in the special community of Fannin, Mississippi.

Daryl was a provider. He was extremely smart and was gifted with the desire to research everything that piqued his interest. He worked as an Electronic Repair Technician for over 20 years when he became the Supervisor of Plant Maintenance for more than 10 years, dedicating nearly his entire adult life and more than 30 years to Siemens Energy in Richland, MS. Daryl’s dedication did not stop there. He was a wood-worker hobbyist and was a fixer of all things. He enjoyed creating beautiful treasures from the wish lists his family readily supplied him. His family and friends often called on him first to help fix, well, anything. Daryl’s love of music led him to be a weekend radio DJ for the “Sunday Gumbo” where he was followed and befriended by a wonderful community. Daryl was a devout Mississippi State fan and for years he did not miss an opportunity to attend a game there. Through another loved past-time as an amateur radio operator, more commonly known as “ham radio”, he was able to help the American Red Cross in several efforts throughout the years. He was always willing to provide in whatever way he could, including and most importantly his support. If Daryl was invited or welcome, he would be there. His children and grandchildren are a beautiful testament to this. You could catch him most often in an auditorium, at a court, or field, proudly watching one of grands perform or play. He’d likely be sporting a shining jersey number pin on one his school spirit hats. You could also be sure to read about any exciting performance on one of his many social media accounts that each boast of his grandkids he followed around so loyally.

Daryl is preceded in death by his father Jack Montgomery and mother Olene Montgomery.

Daryl is survived by his wife Daphne Montgomery, his sister, Kathy (Garry) McGinty, his son Jay (Becky) Montgomery, his daughters Anna (Todd) Alderman and Lea (Jeff) Denson, his grandchildren Jack Guy, Maryanna Guy, Gabe Denson, Warner Young, Gavin Denson, Harley Montgomery, Glen Denson, and Allie Montgomery, and many nieces and nephews.