James "Deke" Montgomery

James Wesley “Deke” Montgomery departed this life on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at his residence surrounded by loved ones.

On November 12, 1961, James, affectionately known as “Deke”, was the first boy birthed from the union of the late James Ervin Montgomery and the late Bettie Ann McBride Montgomery. As the oldest brother to his nine other siblings, James was known for being tough, yet kind-hearted.

Early on James recognized the need for Christ in his life and later received Him as his Lord and Savior.

James was educated in the public schools of Sumter County. Throughout life, he learned several additional trades, such as commercial truck driving. He was also a city worker for the City of Manning, SC. However, “Deke” constantly pursued his dream of entrepreneurship, which he accomplished with the opening of his very own paint shop. “Deke” was well known far and wide for his flawless painting of cars.  His work can still be seen blazing the streets of South Carolina and beyond to this day.

“Deke” was very active in his community. Whether it was coaching recreational sports or supervising the “Quiet Storm” step team, “Deke” could often be seen out and about causing “good trouble” within his community.

One of James’ proudest accomplishments was becoming a member of the elite Thunderguard Motorcycle Club. “Deke” spent many days and nights with his “brothers” and made many memories with them—too many to count!

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Ervin Montgomery and Bettie Ann McBride Montgomery; his sister, Tracelynn Denise Montgomery Simmons; his brother, Bernard Galloway and his paternal and maternal grandparents.

James leaves to cherish his memories a loving wife, Sandra Parker Montgomery of the home; his children, Laquisha Gibson, Quanisha Choice-Rush and  Tierra Montgomery all of Sumter, SC, Velencia  Montgomery of Columbia, SC, Jamie Montgomery, Zikeria Montgomery, James Montgomery Jr. and Allyssa Montgomery all of Manning, SC; his siblings, Betty (Frank) Bennett, Shirley Pressley, John Montgomery and Johnny Montgomery all of Sumter, SC, Brian (Debra) Montgomery of Arlington, TX, Almetis (William) Bolden of Fort Worth, TX, Tonya (Lamont) Williams of Crowley, TX and Eric Simon of North Charleston, SC; three stepchildren, Ashley Parker, Diamond Parker and Nydja Parker of the home; a beloved league of brothers within the Thunderguard Motorcycle Club and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and friends.

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