Charles Montgomery
Charles Herbert Montgomery, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025, at 4:30 AM, at the age of 79, near West Plains, Missouri. His life will be celebrated during graveside services on Thursday, September 25, at 2 PM at the Thayer Memorial Cemetery in Thayer, MO, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Born on August 12, 1946, near West Plains, Charles was the son of Herbert and Eva Montgomery. His early education began in a one-room schoolhouse near Peace Valley, MO, before he continued his studies at Junction Hill School and ultimately graduated from West Plains High School in 1964. During his high school years, he excelled in the Vo-tech Carpentry class, earning numerous awards for his dedication and skill. He furthered his education at SMSU-WP for two additional years, laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors.
On June 1, 1968, Charles married the love of his life, JoBeth Thomas, in Thayer, MO. His commitment to service was evident as he proudly served two terms in the Army National Guard, completing basic training at Fort Leonard Wood.
Charles’s carpentry skills were put to good use as he worked alongside his father, Herbert, building many prominent homes in the West Plains area. He specialized in kitchen and bath countertops, showcasing his craftsmanship and attention to detail. Later, he transitioned from construction to help Shanna expand the retail business that JoBeth had started, dedicating his time and energy to its success. In his later years, he found joy building rentals for himself and farming alongside his son, Garel. Empowering those around him was a staple of Charles’s professional career.
A man of deep faith, Charles was a devoted member of several local churches at different stages of his life, including Victoria Mission, Endurance, and His Place. His faith was reflected in his generous spirit, as he often contributed his time and resources to support various church building projects and mission ministries.
Charles was a devoted family man, whose love for his wife, children, and grandchildren was boundless. He took great pride in empowering and supporting his family, and his grandchildren brought him immense joy in his later years.
He is survived by his loving wife, JoBeth Montgomery; his children, Son Garel Montgomery and wife Leslie, daughter Shanna Head and husband Jay and his cherished grandchildren, Dalton Head, Lauren Head, Jed Montgomery, Evin Montgomery, and Jon Montgomery. He is also survived by his in-laws, Bob Anderson, Michael and Bonnie Thomas; nieces and nephews, Rodney and Brooke Anderson, Seth and Janette Atkinson, Bill and Autumn Thomas, Christina Thomas; and close friends, Bill Pierce, Gary Simpson, Bob Wright, and Bob Riley.
Charles is preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Eva Montgomery; his in-laws, William and Marjorie Thomas; and his sister, Martha Anderson.
Mr. Montgomery will lie in state from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Rover Fire Department and/or Thomasville Fire Department, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Charles Herbert Montgomery will be remembered for his unmatched work ethic, unwavering faith and his dedication to family. His legacy will live on in the hearts and lives of those he touched.
Greg Worley
September 22, 2025 @ 8:10 pm
One of the greatest. Prayers for the family and a heart full of memories.
Dustin W Mahan
September 22, 2025 @ 8:47 pm
Shanna Head and Montgomery families, I’m sorry for the loss of your father.
Karen Harbison
September 22, 2025 @ 8:54 pm
I’m so very sorry for your loss. Prayers for all.
John and Terry Morrow
September 23, 2025 @ 11:04 am
Just raised a wonderful family and a brother in law whom we love so very much. My mother and father were so thankful for Garel and the grandchildren that brought mother so much joy after our Father’s passing. May his legacy live on in the grand children to remain faithful to Jesus Christ.
Larry Montgomery
September 23, 2025 @ 12:09 pm
It’s been many years since I last saw Charles, but I remember clearly how much we younger cousins looked up to him. My thoughts and prayers to the family.
Wendy and Randy
September 23, 2025 @ 12:46 pm
Jobeth and Family,
We are so sorry to hear about Charles’s passing. Please accept our deepest sympathy during this incredibly difficult time.
He was a wonderful man—kind, warm, and full of quiet strength. I know how much he meant to you and to so many others whose lives he touched.
I hope you find comfort in the love you shared, the memories you built together, and the support of those around you. Please know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers. With heartfelt sympathy, Randy and Wendy
Kenneth D Hanshaw
September 23, 2025 @ 7:30 pm
my friendship with Charles was established many years ago and he was very well thought of by me. My prayers are with the family and I know he will be missed greatly but he is now in the presence of our Lord and Savior of which he served for so many years.
Amber Redburn
September 24, 2025 @ 8:44 am
Mrs. Jo Beth Montgomery and Families,
We extend our Deepest Sympathy all of you on the passing of Charles. May God daily provide each of you peace, comfort, strength, and encouragement. We will be keeping all of you in our daily prayers and thoughts. May God bless each one of you.
In Christian Love,
Norris & Ivene Cozort
Tim & Amber Redburn
Pamela Fredrick
September 24, 2025 @ 5:53 pm
I am so very sorry to hear this news, JoBeth. Please know that you and your entire family are on my thoughts and prayers.
Craig and Sherri Cromet
September 24, 2025 @ 10:35 pm
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.