Billy Carroll Montgomery passed away peacefully in his home on the farm at 86 years of age on April 3, 2025.

Billy was born a twin to his life long friend and brother Jimmy on May 3, 1938 in Sparta, NC to John Bruce and Lucy Maines Montgomery. In addition to his parents and twin brother, he was preceded in passing by his best friend and beloved wife of 58 years, Frances Jane Kincer Montgomery. Also, preceding Mr. Montgomery in death were his sister, Jean Tolbert; brothers Dean, Bob, Ralph, and Roy Montgomery, and grandson James Derek Montgomery.

Billy is survived by his two children James Carroll Montgomery (Renee) and Sonya Marie Hash (David) all of Galax, VA; five grandchildren Tyler Hash (Lauren) of Galax, VA; Travis Hash (Jenna) of Galax, VA; Heather Montgomery of Woodlawn, VA; Cody Montgomery (Cristin) of Ennice NC; Alese Hash (Coen) of Galax, VA; a loving sister Myrtle Clodfelter of High Point, NC ; several nieces and nephews and 7 great grandchildren.

Billy and his seven siblings grew up in a modest home in the center of the Baywood community where he could often be found during childhood, playing baseball with the rest of the "Baywood Boys."

Shortly after graduating from Galax High School, Billy would go on to proudly serve his community as a member of the United States Army before receiving an electrical degree from The Virginia Polytechnic Institute, where he attended thanks to the GI Bill.

After a short stint in the electrical field, Billy would return to his first passion; long-haul trucking. Billy spent the rest of his working days as an owner-operator driving his International cab-overs hauling freight to various parts of the US. Known on the CB radio as "Wild Bill," he spent a lot of time on the road to provide for his family at home.

Upon retirement, Billy enjoyed spending his time working on his small cattle farm along side his wife, Frances, his kids, and grandkids. "Paw Paw" as he was affectionately called, always had a story to tell or a word of wisdom to offer, that cannot be replaced.

Billy also enjoyed reading, watching Jeopardy or baseball, and played both the piano and harmonica. While a simple man and often of few words, you were wise to listen when he spoke. For a man of small stature, he sure stood tall to all those who so dearly loved him. It's safe to say our "Paw Paw" will be missed by many.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April12, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Reins~Sturdivant Funeral Home with Rev. Robbie Dolinger officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral service. Burial will follow in the Galyean Cemetery with military rites.

The family invites friends to come by the Baywood Rescue Squad building after the graveside service for fellowship.

In lieu of flowers, friends may choose to send donations to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105, Wythe Hospice of Southwest VA, 705 East Main Street, Suite B Wytheville, VA 24382, Baywood Rescue Squad, c/o Nelson Galyean 47 Crosswoods Drive Galax, VA 24333 or to the Galyean Cemetery c/o Cathy Reedy 1846 Snow Hill Road Galax, VA 24333 in Billy's memory.

The family would like to thank the VA home based care, Wythe Hospice of Southwest VA, and Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home for their wonderful care.

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home is serving the Montgomery family.