Phyllis Sue Montgomery

Phyllis Sue Montgomery, 86, of Sedalia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Sunday March 8, 2026, at Bothwell Regional Health Center, Sedalia.

She was born August 14, 1939, in Poinsett County, Arkansas, the daughter of Philis and Doris (Howdeshell) Jones.

Phyllis graduated from Poplar Bluff High School in 1958. Growing up, Phyllis enjoyed spending time with friends and family. She played basketball and was an avid roller skater. The skating rink is where she met the love of her life, William Joseph Montgomery and on March 21st, 1959, they were united in marriage in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. Together they intentionally crafted a love and family modeled after their shared reverence for the selfless way Christ loved His church.

Phyllis dedicated 28 years of service as a sales associate at JC Penney where she was known for her knowledge of style and strong work ethic. There she made many lifelong friends who she cherished.

Apart from her career and selfless devotion to family, Phyllis developed a love for antiquing and collecting, particularly railroad memorabilia, pottery, baskets, and quilts.

Phyllis was a faithful member of the Lord's church for 58 years. Through her devotion to God, she met many people who became her brothers and sisters in Christ and were a constant joy to her. Phyllis' love of God was further evidenced by the quiet way she unconditionally loved her friends and family and ministered to their mind through counsel, their body with a home cooked meal, and their spirit through truth whenever she could.

Phyllis is survived by her three children, William Montgomery, Joseph Montgomery and Sue Ann Arnett; nine grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and parents, Phyllis was preceded in death by her brother, Billy Floyd, and her son-in-law, Gene Arnett.

In keeping with her wishes and her desire to help others, even after her passing, Phyllis donated her body to the University of Missouri's Gift of Body program to further medical research and advancements.

A celebration of life service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 12th, 2026 at Rea Funeral Chapel with Minister Charles Rose officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Lincoln Church of Christ.

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