April 26, 2022
April 26, 2022
Happy Birthday Daddy. You are in my heart every day. I love you. I love you.
"In Loving Memory of Kenneth Montgomery"
Kenny Montgomery still had the first guitar he ever owned, hanging on the wall in his music room. He was twelve years old when he got that guitar. He'd already been playing for six years on borrowed guitars.
Kenneth Paul Montgomery died April 5, 2012. He was 3 weeks shy of his 84th birthday. "Kenny" was born in Shawnee, Oklahoma. He played music everyday. Even when his shoulder ached and the doctor said he had worn the cartilage to the bone, Kenny would not stop playing lead guitar on his beloved Fender Stratocaster. He said it kept him young. One minute he was juicing the blues on his Strat, the next minute he'd strap on his 12 string and soar with Marty Robbins.
When he was 80, Kenny discovered the iPod and Pandora. His grandson, Eric Hardin, introduced him to the world of electronic wonders. Kenny would welcome family and friends into his music room. With a big smile, he'd proudly proclaim, "Today I'm going to be playing along with some friends of mine." His fingers were almost too big for the iPod controls, but he eventually mastered the new device, and with the delight of a child he'd settle into his favorite chair and listen for the next song. He could play everything, from Chet Atkins to Eric Clapton, from Muddy Waters to Les Paul.
Kenny's musical career started in a tent revival. He was six years old when he picked up a guitar and started playing along with the choir. His father, the Preacher, took this as a sign to spread the gospel throughout the land. They traveled in a Model T to small towns in Arkansas, Texas and Oklahoma. They'd set up in a brush arbor or an old schoolhouse. Kenny would strap a pie tin on his overalls as a collection plate and stroll down the aisles strumming his guitar. But in his mind's eye it wasn't an old schoolhouse, it was the stage of the Grand Ole Opry. And he was playing to a packed house of country music loving fans.
By the time Kenny was a teenager he had joined a western swing band, the "Triple M Boys". Dude Rawson, age 86, played fiddle and sang. He says the first time he saw Kenneth was in a revival. "He was quite a showman and one fine guitar player. He'd take his left hand and come up over the finger board and play upside down like that." Kenny went on to play with the Oklahoma Playboys. They had their own radio show every Friday night at 5:00 PM. The band's name was a tip of the cowboy hat to everyone's western swing hero, Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys.
Kenny played lead guitar with many old time country music singers and musicians, like Freddy Hart and Leon McAuliff, Bob Will's sensational pedal steel player. He also played with Jack Guthrie, Woody Guthrie's cousin. Jack had a number one hit song, "Oklahoma Hills Where I Was Born."
Kenny remembers: "I was working at the Hob Nob in Oklahoma City. Jack played there off and on for a year. He sure could hold his own. We were playing on the bandstand. We probably played something the fellow didn't like, or we didn't play his song. I don't know what happened. But here come a big salt shaker sailing across the room and just barely missed Jack and me. I don't know whether it was meant for me or meant for Jack. Jack said, 'Whoever threw that salt shaker would he come up here and let me know?' A guy walked up to the bandstand. Jack hit him one time and knocked him to the floor. The guy came to in a little bit and went back to his seat and sat down. No more commotion after that. I didn't know at the time that Jack was already sick. He passed away that next year of Tuberculosis. He went out singing and swinging." Kenny was 19. Jack Guthrie was 32.
Over the decades Kenny entertained countless fans throughout Oklahoma and later, California, where he moved in 1956. He turned down several opportunities to go on the road with big name country entertainers like Hank Thompson and Wynn Stuart. Kenny loved country music, but there was one thing he loved even more - his family.
One time while playing in Vegas with Jack Reeves, Glen Cambell's cousin, Kenny returned home after only one week, and proclaimed he was never going on the road again. He said the fast life was not for him. Kenny preferred to play in smaller clubs near his home in Upland. During the week he worked as an electrician in the aerospace industry. On the weekends, he played fiery lead guitar at the local honky tonks and clubs with Jack Reeves and The All-Americans, and after that, with his long time singer and dear friend, Jerry Haney.
This year Kenny and his beautiful bride, Marysue, were celebrating 60 years together. Kenny loved to tell the story of how they met. "I thought she was the most beautiful girl in the world when I saw her singing in a choir. I asked a friend who she was and where she went to church. I changed my church and started going to her church. So the next Sunday, after church was over there were about six guys trying to talk to her and I thought, here's my chance. Of course I was playing in the band, the church band, which helped some. Being a musician that helped me out. It wasn't my good looks because I never had that. So the next Sunday, I walked up to her and said, 'How would you like to go out and get some ice cream.' And she said, 'Okay.' And six guys standing around said, 'What happened here? Who is this guy?' About six months later we got married."
Kenny always tears up and flashes his signature smile when he gets to the final part of the story. "We've had a very enjoyable life together. Seems like I've been married all my life. All my success I give to her."
Kenny counted himself one of the lucky ones. His grandson, Christopher, a fellow guitar picker and songwriter, asked him recently, "If you had it to do all over again, how would you do it?" Kenny immediately answered with a smile, "Oh, I'd do it the same. I wouldn't change a thing if I had it to do all over again. I'd do it the same."
(Kenny loved to make music and his music lives on. We invite you to explore this site as you listen to great Blues and Country Music, including Kenny playing banjo, guitar and piano, while his dear friend, Jerry Haney, sings, or while Kenny jams along with the likes of Bob Wills, Merle Haggard, George Jones and Junior Brown.
This Memorial website will remain forever as a place for friends and family to visit with our beloved Kenny. We can meet here and share a smile, a tear, or a song. There are so many great stories to tell about this beautiful man who touched us all.)
Tributes
Leave a tribute
April 5, 2022
April 5, 2022
Ten years today. My heart is so full of love for you. You are here with me. And when I think of you, the first thing that comes to my eye is not a tear but a smile.
I am so proud and blessed to call you my Forever Missed, beloved Father.
Love you Daddy
I am so proud and blessed to call you my Forever Missed, beloved Father.
Love you Daddy
April 26, 2021
April 26, 2021
Happy birthday to you in heaven Kenny Montgomery ❤
April 19, 2021
April 19, 2021
Love you, Daddy. It's been 10 years that you've been gone - I think about you every day. You are always in my heart.
August 18, 2016
August 18, 2016
Dearest Uncle Kenneth,
I hadn't been to this memorial site before and reading over all of these lovely memories and experiencing such a resurgence of my own loving and happy memories of you has me choked up in my chest and throat, with tears welling up... both from missing you and the intensity of our own memories. I spent many a blissful hour with you in your music room as we made music together. Harmonizing and singing with you was sheer joy - even when I sometimes didn't really know the song. We had such fun winging it together! You have been a blessing in my life from my earliest recollections. Your kindness and caring were unending. I will always love you - you were an amazing uncle and friend.
I hadn't been to this memorial site before and reading over all of these lovely memories and experiencing such a resurgence of my own loving and happy memories of you has me choked up in my chest and throat, with tears welling up... both from missing you and the intensity of our own memories. I spent many a blissful hour with you in your music room as we made music together. Harmonizing and singing with you was sheer joy - even when I sometimes didn't really know the song. We had such fun winging it together! You have been a blessing in my life from my earliest recollections. Your kindness and caring were unending. I will always love you - you were an amazing uncle and friend.
April 5, 2016
April 5, 2016
It's been four years now. There's another Kenny in the family now - named after you. He's Eric and Rachel's son and he just started to walk. I remember how you delighted in Hannah, Austin, Eric, Christopher, Lance and Ryan when they were little. You were the world's best Grandpa. We keep you alive in the shiny face of your great grand baby, Kenny, in the breathtakingly beautiful face of your sweet bride, Marysue, and in the scores of people who loved you - as well as these 37,000 people who have come to this site to pay you a visit. Love, Love, Love, Lynn
October 15, 2015
October 15, 2015
Daddy, I've been listening to your music a lot today. I'm working on a documentary about you, your music and your well-lived and well-loved life. It was an honor to be your daughter. I hope I can do you justice.
April 26, 2015
April 26, 2015
Happy Birthday, Daddy.
Every time I listen to this song I see you playing your guitar in your music room. You're sitting on a stool, one boot on the ground, the other toe tapping to the music. I enter the room and you lift your head and smile at me and the whole world is alive - just as you are forever in my heart.
Song by Lefty Frizzell, Sung by Jo-El Sonnier
"I lose my blues, honey, when I'm with you
No one else can do you're in my heart to stay
But when I'm gone, and I'm all alone
I'll be singing this song I wanna be with you, always
I'd be happy, dearest, if you could only be here
And always be nearer, forever and a day
Then we'd travel far, we'd be some big shinin' star
Just you and my guitar and stay there, sweetheart for always."
Every time I listen to this song I see you playing your guitar in your music room. You're sitting on a stool, one boot on the ground, the other toe tapping to the music. I enter the room and you lift your head and smile at me and the whole world is alive - just as you are forever in my heart.
Song by Lefty Frizzell, Sung by Jo-El Sonnier
"I lose my blues, honey, when I'm with you
No one else can do you're in my heart to stay
But when I'm gone, and I'm all alone
I'll be singing this song I wanna be with you, always
I'd be happy, dearest, if you could only be here
And always be nearer, forever and a day
Then we'd travel far, we'd be some big shinin' star
Just you and my guitar and stay there, sweetheart for always."
April 5, 2015
April 5, 2015
Uncle Kenny...just thinking about you today. Remembering your warmth and laughter. Brought a smile to my face. Love you! Nancy
April 5, 2015
April 5, 2015
Hi Daddy, Here it is the 3rd anniversary since we last saw your handsome, funny face. I see you all the time in my mind, in the smile of your beautiful wife, in the sound of a great country riff and of course in the many hours of video and music recordings we have. I found a new video that I hadn't seen since we made it 5 years ago. You are working in my compost pile talking about your oil check, Jethro and the "cement pond." Those that know you will picture this scene and laugh. We love you always and forever, Lynn
April 5, 2015
April 5, 2015
Hi Kenny, this is from your forever loving wife, Marysue,
"Me You, Me You."
I think about you every day. I talk to you every day and every night. I read this poem recently and it felt like you had written it for me:
"Laugh as we always laughed
at the little jokes we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me. Pray for me.
Let my name be ever the household word
that it always was.
Let it be spoken without effect.
Without the trace of a shadow on it."
We have big news in the family. Eric and Rachel are having a baby boy. He will be born in May just a few weeks after your birthday. They are naming him Kenneth after you. We all love you and miss you and can't wait to meet Kenny 2. Before you send him to us, put a guitar in his hands and teach him a few licks.
I love you, Marysue
"Me You, Me You."
I think about you every day. I talk to you every day and every night. I read this poem recently and it felt like you had written it for me:
"Laugh as we always laughed
at the little jokes we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me. Pray for me.
Let my name be ever the household word
that it always was.
Let it be spoken without effect.
Without the trace of a shadow on it."
We have big news in the family. Eric and Rachel are having a baby boy. He will be born in May just a few weeks after your birthday. They are naming him Kenneth after you. We all love you and miss you and can't wait to meet Kenny 2. Before you send him to us, put a guitar in his hands and teach him a few licks.
I love you, Marysue
April 26, 2014
April 26, 2014
Hi Daddy, Happy Birthday. You are 86 today. You always said you wanted to make it to 100. Well you will make it that long and much much longer because we all carry you in our hearts everyday and always will. Mom is taking the train up today and we will play your music and tell stories on you and tomorrow we'll head down to your favorite BBQ restaurant and eat way too much but enjoy every minute of it. I love you, Lynnie
April 7, 2014
April 7, 2014
Hi Daddy,
It has been 2 years now, it seems like yesterday and it seems like forever. Saturday, we went to visit the cemetery. Karen scattered pink rose petals, Craig put fresh bark all around the Oklahoma flagstone. The big cowboy boot planter that Christopher picked out is all abloom. The rose bushes Mom and Karen planted have hundreds of buds bursting with spring. Sunday we awoke to your music on the jukebox. Then we went to Flo's and ordered Biscuits and Gravy with extra Sausage. I love you, we love you. You are always with us.
It has been 2 years now, it seems like yesterday and it seems like forever. Saturday, we went to visit the cemetery. Karen scattered pink rose petals, Craig put fresh bark all around the Oklahoma flagstone. The big cowboy boot planter that Christopher picked out is all abloom. The rose bushes Mom and Karen planted have hundreds of buds bursting with spring. Sunday we awoke to your music on the jukebox. Then we went to Flo's and ordered Biscuits and Gravy with extra Sausage. I love you, we love you. You are always with us.
February 2, 2014
February 2, 2014
Hi Daddy, I spent some time with you today on this wonderful site. Thank you to the founder of Forevermissed. You have brought peace to so many families by creating this space for us to remember our loved ones - to laugh, to cry and to ponder life's mysteries and joys.
Daddy, you live in our hearts and you live on these pages.
PS my new favorite shirt is your soft green flannel. I'm making a quilt with some of your old jeans. Hannah had to write a sonnet for her English class. She cheated a little and said she didn't want to write a new one so she turned in the sonnet she wrote for you. She got an A+
Daddy, you live in our hearts and you live on these pages.
PS my new favorite shirt is your soft green flannel. I'm making a quilt with some of your old jeans. Hannah had to write a sonnet for her English class. She cheated a little and said she didn't want to write a new one so she turned in the sonnet she wrote for you. She got an A+
December 16, 2013
December 16, 2013
May his Soul rest in Peace
December 7, 2013
December 7, 2013
Reading your words your Father seemed to be a wonderful and talented man. I am terribly sorry for your loss. As with my Mother, the pain and sorrow of her presence no longer on this earth will never go away, time just makes it easier to live with. Beyond forever in your heart and memories. Thank you for allowing me to get to know a little about your Father....BC Beyer
June 19, 2013
June 19, 2013
Hi Daddy,
The healing process continues. When I think of you now, tears are not the first emotion. I can smile more and laugh, thinking of how you used to play the piano with your nose or walk on your knees with your feet behind your neck. You were silly and miraculous, one of God's true wonders, so talented and charming, loving and devoted.
The healing process continues. When I think of you now, tears are not the first emotion. I can smile more and laugh, thinking of how you used to play the piano with your nose or walk on your knees with your feet behind your neck. You were silly and miraculous, one of God's true wonders, so talented and charming, loving and devoted.
April 26, 2013
April 26, 2013
Happy Birthday dear Kenneth!!! From my brother and I. We miss your hugs,but I know you are keeping an eye on us from heaven.
April 8, 2013
April 8, 2013
Hi Daddy,
One year. One long, yet instantaneous year. I took flowers from my garden and planted them around your headstone. I feel your love and sweet strength around me always. This week, Mom gave me the biggest gift of all. She said, "Lynny, Daddy revered you." I hope to live my life worthy of your love.
One year. One long, yet instantaneous year. I took flowers from my garden and planted them around your headstone. I feel your love and sweet strength around me always. This week, Mom gave me the biggest gift of all. She said, "Lynny, Daddy revered you." I hope to live my life worthy of your love.
January 27, 2013
January 27, 2013
Daddy, be on the lookout for Ruby up there in heaven. She's up there to sing with you and Uncle Bud and Connie. We love you so much and when I look up and see a beautiful sky, I hear your sweet music and see your twinkling smile. Love, love, forever love, your Lynnie
January 17, 2013
January 17, 2013
I just wanted to say your memorial is beautiful. I pray God will continue to strengthen you. I hope you can also take comfort in Revelation 21:4: "[God] will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more…the former things have passed away.""
January 4, 2013
January 4, 2013
LaVonne wrote: Kenneth was such a good man and I miss him like crazy!!! My only consolation is that I know he is with Jesus and our dear Connie! God bless you for taking the time to write this precious article. You, Karen, Marysue and all of the family are so dear to me. Kenneth could not have had a sweeter and more loving family!! He was truly blessed!! I love you all so much!!"
December 22, 2012
December 22, 2012
Merry Christmas, Daddy. This is our first Christmas without you. Today I was wrapping presents and I played your music. It was so beautiful. I laughed, cried and tapped my toe all at the same time. Tomorrow I will put the music online for all your family, friends and fans to hear. I love you. I miss you everyday. You were the best daddy a girl could have.
June 21, 2012
June 21, 2012
Uncle Kenneth,
I miss you and I will always remember how warm and kind you were. I will always hold you in my heart and remember all the fun I had as a child spending time with you.
I miss you and I will always remember how warm and kind you were. I will always hold you in my heart and remember all the fun I had as a child spending time with you.
June 21, 2012
June 21, 2012
"From Judy Summers (Yandell) - Maysville Oklahoma (part 1)
So sorry to hear about my Great Uncle Kenneth's passing. My parents and family loved him so much. He will be greatly missed here from his family in Lindsay."
So sorry to hear about my Great Uncle Kenneth's passing. My parents and family loved him so much. He will be greatly missed here from his family in Lindsay."
June 21, 2012
June 21, 2012
From Judy Summers (Yandell) Maysville, OK (part 2)
I'll always remember him coming to Grandma Cleo's house and all the family having quite the gathering and singing Gospel hymns. He always brought his guitar. Someone would always play Grandma's piano. My thoughts and prayer's will be with you all out there in California.
I'll always remember him coming to Grandma Cleo's house and all the family having quite the gathering and singing Gospel hymns. He always brought his guitar. Someone would always play Grandma's piano. My thoughts and prayer's will be with you all out there in California.
June 21, 2012
June 21, 2012
republished from The Oklahoman Obituary website May 27
I'm sorry for your loss but what a brilliant remembrance! I'm an OKC native, and a country music (real country music) and stringed-instrument aficionado. Your retrospective of Kenneth's life is a treasure that reaches even beyond family and friends.
~ Ben Elder
I'm sorry for your loss but what a brilliant remembrance! I'm an OKC native, and a country music (real country music) and stringed-instrument aficionado. Your retrospective of Kenneth's life is a treasure that reaches even beyond family and friends.
~ Ben Elder
June 21, 2012
June 21, 2012
(from the Oklahoman Obituary website May 27)
I didn't know Kenneth Montgomery, but what a life well lived and a beautiful obituary.
~ Floyd Martin, Jr.,Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
I didn't know Kenneth Montgomery, but what a life well lived and a beautiful obituary.
~ Floyd Martin, Jr.,Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
June 17, 2012
June 17, 2012
Happy Father's Day, Daddy. I am always with you. "Me you, me you."
June 13, 2012
June 13, 2012
His music is what I grew up with. I remember my Mom & Dad having folks over and playing records- we were country! and thanks to good music like this, it is my fav of country the good ole country-
I remember when u had folks call him on his Bday 2 yrs ago and Jamie called and had a very pleasant conversation with him- u r blessed to hv been so close to a legend!
I remember when u had folks call him on his Bday 2 yrs ago and Jamie called and had a very pleasant conversation with him- u r blessed to hv been so close to a legend!
June 9, 2012
June 9, 2012
rest in peace,
June 8, 2012
June 8, 2012
--------From Marie and Michael,
Your Dad had a big heart. It had to be to hold all the people he loved, and those who loved him. He will be truly missed.
Your Dad had a big heart. It had to be to hold all the people he loved, and those who loved him. He will be truly missed.
June 2, 2012
June 2, 2012
Tribute message from Michael Stinson,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I remember coming over to hear him play music at your house. There was so much love in the room that night. Michael
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I remember coming over to hear him play music at your house. There was so much love in the room that night. Michael
May 29, 2012
May 29, 2012
Love his music. A great Okie git picker. Can't wait to meet him in Heaven!
May 27, 2012
May 27, 2012
From Austin-------------- You always called me General when I was younger. Then you started calling me Admiral because I love the sea. I liked it when you came to stay with us in Santa Barbara. The jam sessions with Matt were great. I loved your stories, especially the one about the chickens you raised with Memaw and they were running through the house! I miss you. I love you, The Admiral
May 27, 2012
May 27, 2012
Ken, I liked you from the beginning. You were an artist with your music. We could communicate on that level. I enjoyed your craftsmanship. Your pianos were works of art. We shared a similar sense of humor, which is a big plus in a father in law! I see your smile and your eyes when I look at Lynn and the rest of your family. I think of you offten. You're very much alive in our household.
May 23, 2012
May 23, 2012
----A memory from Rosa
Lynn, your Dad is in a better place now. He was a good man who many people loved. Someday you will see him again. I remember that last week he stayed with you. He was so happy, laughing, taking long walks. That time was a wonderful gift from God. Emos Perdido auna gran ombre amorroso!
Lynn, your Dad is in a better place now. He was a good man who many people loved. Someday you will see him again. I remember that last week he stayed with you. He was so happy, laughing, taking long walks. That time was a wonderful gift from God. Emos Perdido auna gran ombre amorroso!
May 23, 2012
May 23, 2012
From Dude Rawson, singer and fiddler in Ken's 1st band
-----------I played with a lot of guitar pickers in my life, but I rate Kenneth above all of them. Not just because he was my friend, I'm saying it because he was that good. And I am sure going to miss him. ---(to read more of Dude's memories, go to the "HIS LIFE" tab at top of page, scroll down to KENNY'S FIRST BAND.)
-----------I played with a lot of guitar pickers in my life, but I rate Kenneth above all of them. Not just because he was my friend, I'm saying it because he was that good. And I am sure going to miss him. ---(to read more of Dude's memories, go to the "HIS LIFE" tab at top of page, scroll down to KENNY'S FIRST BAND.)
May 1, 2012
May 1, 2012
From Hannah:
Granddad, your name should have been - "Inspiration" because that is what you always gave to everyone. You always encouraged me in every way. We shared lots of funny stories that were our own little secrets. I love you and miss you every day. Love, Hannah.
Granddad, your name should have been - "Inspiration" because that is what you always gave to everyone. You always encouraged me in every way. We shared lots of funny stories that were our own little secrets. I love you and miss you every day. Love, Hannah.
April 26, 2012
April 26, 2012
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY" Uncle Kenneth! You are remembered with much Love and Great Memories. Jeannie
April 26, 2012
April 26, 2012
Happy Birthday Kenneth. I think of you often and always will. Rest in Peace.....
April 26, 2012
April 26, 2012
Happy 84th Birthday Grand Dad. I am again too far away to attend the party but I know you guys are having fun without me. We will get together one of these days when my work here is through and then we will make up for lost time. I miss you and think of you often. Much Love, Your #1 grandson Lance
April 19, 2012
April 19, 2012
Ken, you will always be remembered by our family as a loving and caring daddy, father-in-law and grand dad. Our losses have been unbearable but we rest in the hope that we will re-unite in the presence of the God of the universe. Our love & prayers will be continually with Mary Sue & family. Sincerely, Don
April 18, 2012
April 18, 2012
I have know Ken Montgomery my friend , when the Davis Brothers, Joe Virgil And Charles played many years ago. When we needed a guitar player Ken was the first choice but sometimes he could"t make it and the second choice stepped in but Ken was always on our minds and in our hearts you will always be remembered. love Joe Davis
April 18, 2012
April 18, 2012
I have known Ken about 35 years, the first time I saw him I was walking down the rode by his home soon after that we both found out we both played guitars and we have been playing guitars all these years. I will miss picking guitar with my friend. Virgil Davis
April 18, 2012
April 18, 2012
When I met Kenneth , Ken, Virgil And Joe were playing music at dances. At the time I didn"t know I was meeting a brother. Kenny took me under his protective wing, Respect is what he insisted on. I will always Love him for the brother image he bestoled on me. Love You Kenny. Violet Davis
April 17, 2012
April 17, 2012
From Lavonne Carmikie Dear Marysue and Family:
I am so sorry I can't be there with you during Kenneth's funeral!! Please know that my heart and prayers are with you all!! Kenneth was a wonderful and loving man and will always stay alive in our hearts!! Anyone who ever met him, fell in love with him and his beautiful music!! No one will ever be able to play the guitar like him!!
I am so sorry I can't be there with you during Kenneth's funeral!! Please know that my heart and prayers are with you all!! Kenneth was a wonderful and loving man and will always stay alive in our hearts!! Anyone who ever met him, fell in love with him and his beautiful music!! No one will ever be able to play the guitar like him!!
April 16, 2012
April 16, 2012
Uncle Kenny, I loved your gentle spirit and country twang! Your music was part of you and added to your charm. I loved listening to you play. Thanks for being a wonderful uncle. Hope you're flying high with guitar in tow, charming the heavenly crowd now.
April 16, 2012
April 16, 2012
My buddy has gone on to better things although I don't see how he could have it any better - He had the perfect life - a beautiful wife - four gorgeous daughters - and one helpful son. He also had his music room where he played every day. (Mary Sue loved this.) He will be missed. Shirley and Stan
April 16, 2012
April 16, 2012
Filled with sympathy and love to the entire family, friends and people whom Ken has touched throughout his time here on earth. We know that he now has a place to celebrate each and every day in Gods loving arms. Although he is gone the memories will live on in the hearts of all those who knew and loved him. We pray for a Spirit filled comfort to all. Love... Jill & Paul Jennings
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
April 26, 2022
April 26, 2022
Happy Birthday Daddy. You are in my heart every day. I love you. I love you.
April 5, 2022
April 5, 2022
Ten years today. My heart is so full of love for you. You are here with me. And when I think of you, the first thing that comes to my eye is not a tear but a smile.
I am so proud and blessed to call you my Forever Missed, beloved Father.
Love you Daddy
I am so proud and blessed to call you my Forever Missed, beloved Father.
Love you Daddy
April 26, 2021
April 26, 2021
Happy birthday to you in heaven Kenny Montgomery ❤
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#1 Old Lange.. Look at my pretty wife
vintagedaddy_thumb_68d651066d05d7d61fe59cb3d3c509a5
! Daddy playing the Blues with Junior Brown
Xmas 2010 Daddy_Richard
Daddy with Jack Reeves and The All Americans
Daddy at Disney
At Disney Studios with Mom and Dad
She gives me love
daddy:james dean
Recent stories
May 17, 2016
Here is my online conversation with one of y dad's favorite singers - the great, Cajun, Grammy Award winning, Jo-El Sonnier:
Dear Joel,
My Dad died 3 years ago. Kenny Montgomery was 83 and grew up picking cotton and broomcorn on a farm in Oklahoma. His daddy was a preacher. When Kenny was 5 he picked up a guitar and started playing along with the choir. His Papa fell to his knees and said, "Thank you Lord, we will use this gift to spread your word." From then on whenever Papa preached, Kenny played lead. But always, in his mind's eye, this wasn't a poor tent revival he was playing to - it was an adoring crowd at the Louisiana Hayride!
Kenny never made it to the Hayride or the Opry, but in our hearts he was a legend. I loved my dad. I loved his stories and his music. One of my my favorite times was sitting with him in his little back bedroom that he called his "music room." He'd turn on Pandora and say, "Now, I'm going to play along with some friends of mine."
The last year of his life, I started recording these little "sessions" on my iPhone camera. We'd talk, laugh and cry, but mostly I'd listen to the hero of my life do what he loved doing most - playing the guitar, making music, making memories.
I live in Santa Barbara. Every year we have a film festival in January. For this year's festival I want to put together a short documentary honoring my dad and his music. The last words he spoke were a chant to my mom, the love of his life. He whispered "me you, me you, me you. That's what they always said to each other. But before the end, when he could still get out a whole sentence, he motioned Marysue to his side and said, "Honey, don't sell my guitars."
That's the title of my film. My Dad loved Lefty Frizzell. He especially loved your take on Lefty. One of his favorite songs is your "I Want to Be With You Always." I would love to include this song in my film. There's a touching scene where "Always" comes on Pandora. He introduces you and starts playing, then at the end of the song he says, "I like this guy."
May I have permission to include your song in the short documentary? I'm not sure how these things work and if I need to get permission from Lefty's estate as well. Nor do I know how much this usually costs. So any guidance would be much appreciated. Have you ever performed in Santa Barbara? We have some terrific venues here. The "Sings Like Hell" series at The Lobero Theatre is outstanding and of course there's The Santa Barbara Bowl. I'm getting ahead of myself here - but in a perfect world - we include your "Always" in the short doc, then when the film premiers in January, you come out to Santa Barbara, perform at the Lobero, and I include that in the future 1 hour documentary where, in a sense, Kenny really does get to play with some "friends of his." PS I was blown away by your performance on "True Detective." Any other TV performances coming up? Thank you for your time and for sharing your talent with the world. Sincerely, Lynn Montgomery
Dear Lynn,
Wow, what a great story. My recording of the song belongs to Mercury records and they would be the one to give you a license to use the song. I don't have anything to do with that part of the business because I don't own the rights to the recording. I would love to see the film when it comes out. I bet I would have loved your father, he sounds like my kind of guy. Dear Jo-El,
Thank you so much for getting back to me! Yeah he was a great guy. Would have been his dream to play with you. I will contact Mercury. Any plans for a Santa Barbara tour? We'd love to see you perform. I even have a beach house you and your wife could stay in to sweeten up the deal. I'll keep you up to date on the project. My dad loved your music. Now I do too, just another gift he bestowed on me! Do you have any tips on how best to approach Mercury about the song license? How much do songs cost to use in this fashion? Thank you Now I have to call My mom and tell her you wrote right back! Lynn
Lynn,
I have no idea about the charge but I doubt it's very much because it's such an old song. Just ask for someone in the license department and they will help you out. I'd love to come perform in Santa Barbara if I could get booked there. What did you do with your dads guitars? They had to have really meant the world to him. Hi Jo-El, We still have all 18 of his guitars - including the very first one he ever owned when he was 12. The guitar he played at the revivals starting when he was 5 was a borrowed guitar. Kenny got his first own guitar at 12 and kept it all those years - hanging on the wall of his music room - it is still there. Here is a link to the memorial site I made for him. Your song is playing. http://www.forevermissed.com/kenneth-montgomery/#about Kenneth Montgomery (1928 - 2012) - ForeverMissed.com This online memorial is dedicated to Kenneth Montgomery. It is a place to celebrate his life with photos, stories, music and more. forevermissed.com
Dear Lynn,
Wow, I am truly honored and humbled. I would have loved to have met this man. And when my time on earth is over and I get to heaven, he will be one of the first people I look for. I would love to have sat and picked with him. Treasure his legacy and his guitars, I sure would . Unfortunately my father didn't play guitar and he was very poor so he didn't leave me any instruments to remember him by. You are very lucky to have pieces of him still with you. If he loved his guitars the way I love my accordions and my guitars, they were like his children and should be treated with utmost respect and love. Dear Jo-El,
Thank you. They will be. I am sure your children will love and honor your accordions and guitars, but first you have about 40 more years to make music with them!! I hope and pray this is true. May I use your quote about this in my film?
Lynn,
Sure you can. I only have one son, we lost our oldest son in 2000 at the age of 21. But he loved my instruments and understands the importance of them so I think they will be in good hands when I can no longer use them. I'd love to think I have another 40 years but 10-15 is more realistic if I'm lucky. One thing I know for sure, life's too short, no matter how long you live. Jo-El,
Amen. I am sorry about your son. There is no place to put that kind of grief - just one day you realize the first feeling you have when you think of them is a small smile rather than a ready tear. My dad always thought he'd live to 100 even though he lived with half a heart since he was 60. In the end his heart was the last to go - his Doctor said his heart had made so many new connections on the back side where they couldn't see - and that is what had kept him going so long. Amazing thing - the heart. It keeps on growing in ways we can't see.
Dear Joel,
My Dad died 3 years ago. Kenny Montgomery was 83 and grew up picking cotton and broomcorn on a farm in Oklahoma. His daddy was a preacher. When Kenny was 5 he picked up a guitar and started playing along with the choir. His Papa fell to his knees and said, "Thank you Lord, we will use this gift to spread your word." From then on whenever Papa preached, Kenny played lead. But always, in his mind's eye, this wasn't a poor tent revival he was playing to - it was an adoring crowd at the Louisiana Hayride!
Kenny never made it to the Hayride or the Opry, but in our hearts he was a legend. I loved my dad. I loved his stories and his music. One of my my favorite times was sitting with him in his little back bedroom that he called his "music room." He'd turn on Pandora and say, "Now, I'm going to play along with some friends of mine."
The last year of his life, I started recording these little "sessions" on my iPhone camera. We'd talk, laugh and cry, but mostly I'd listen to the hero of my life do what he loved doing most - playing the guitar, making music, making memories.
I live in Santa Barbara. Every year we have a film festival in January. For this year's festival I want to put together a short documentary honoring my dad and his music. The last words he spoke were a chant to my mom, the love of his life. He whispered "me you, me you, me you. That's what they always said to each other. But before the end, when he could still get out a whole sentence, he motioned Marysue to his side and said, "Honey, don't sell my guitars."
That's the title of my film. My Dad loved Lefty Frizzell. He especially loved your take on Lefty. One of his favorite songs is your "I Want to Be With You Always." I would love to include this song in my film. There's a touching scene where "Always" comes on Pandora. He introduces you and starts playing, then at the end of the song he says, "I like this guy."
May I have permission to include your song in the short documentary? I'm not sure how these things work and if I need to get permission from Lefty's estate as well. Nor do I know how much this usually costs. So any guidance would be much appreciated. Have you ever performed in Santa Barbara? We have some terrific venues here. The "Sings Like Hell" series at The Lobero Theatre is outstanding and of course there's The Santa Barbara Bowl. I'm getting ahead of myself here - but in a perfect world - we include your "Always" in the short doc, then when the film premiers in January, you come out to Santa Barbara, perform at the Lobero, and I include that in the future 1 hour documentary where, in a sense, Kenny really does get to play with some "friends of his." PS I was blown away by your performance on "True Detective." Any other TV performances coming up? Thank you for your time and for sharing your talent with the world. Sincerely, Lynn Montgomery
Dear Lynn,
Wow, what a great story. My recording of the song belongs to Mercury records and they would be the one to give you a license to use the song. I don't have anything to do with that part of the business because I don't own the rights to the recording. I would love to see the film when it comes out. I bet I would have loved your father, he sounds like my kind of guy. Dear Jo-El,
Thank you so much for getting back to me! Yeah he was a great guy. Would have been his dream to play with you. I will contact Mercury. Any plans for a Santa Barbara tour? We'd love to see you perform. I even have a beach house you and your wife could stay in to sweeten up the deal. I'll keep you up to date on the project. My dad loved your music. Now I do too, just another gift he bestowed on me! Do you have any tips on how best to approach Mercury about the song license? How much do songs cost to use in this fashion? Thank you Now I have to call My mom and tell her you wrote right back! Lynn
Lynn,
I have no idea about the charge but I doubt it's very much because it's such an old song. Just ask for someone in the license department and they will help you out. I'd love to come perform in Santa Barbara if I could get booked there. What did you do with your dads guitars? They had to have really meant the world to him. Hi Jo-El, We still have all 18 of his guitars - including the very first one he ever owned when he was 12. The guitar he played at the revivals starting when he was 5 was a borrowed guitar. Kenny got his first own guitar at 12 and kept it all those years - hanging on the wall of his music room - it is still there. Here is a link to the memorial site I made for him. Your song is playing. http://www.forevermissed.com/kenneth-montgomery/#about Kenneth Montgomery (1928 - 2012) - ForeverMissed.com This online memorial is dedicated to Kenneth Montgomery. It is a place to celebrate his life with photos, stories, music and more. forevermissed.com
Dear Lynn,
Wow, I am truly honored and humbled. I would have loved to have met this man. And when my time on earth is over and I get to heaven, he will be one of the first people I look for. I would love to have sat and picked with him. Treasure his legacy and his guitars, I sure would . Unfortunately my father didn't play guitar and he was very poor so he didn't leave me any instruments to remember him by. You are very lucky to have pieces of him still with you. If he loved his guitars the way I love my accordions and my guitars, they were like his children and should be treated with utmost respect and love. Dear Jo-El,
Thank you. They will be. I am sure your children will love and honor your accordions and guitars, but first you have about 40 more years to make music with them!! I hope and pray this is true. May I use your quote about this in my film?
Lynn,
Sure you can. I only have one son, we lost our oldest son in 2000 at the age of 21. But he loved my instruments and understands the importance of them so I think they will be in good hands when I can no longer use them. I'd love to think I have another 40 years but 10-15 is more realistic if I'm lucky. One thing I know for sure, life's too short, no matter how long you live. Jo-El,
Amen. I am sorry about your son. There is no place to put that kind of grief - just one day you realize the first feeling you have when you think of them is a small smile rather than a ready tear. My dad always thought he'd live to 100 even though he lived with half a heart since he was 60. In the end his heart was the last to go - his Doctor said his heart had made so many new connections on the back side where they couldn't see - and that is what had kept him going so long. Amazing thing - the heart. It keeps on growing in ways we can't see.
11/02/2015 10:30PM
I senta note to my friend Peggy Jones who books the Sings Like Hell Series at the Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara. She would love to talk with you about booking a show. Here's a link to their site: singslikehell.org We've been going to the series for years and have seen great shows from people like Greg Brown, Lucinda Williams, John Hiatt, Randy Newman, Tracy Chapman, Rufus Wainwright. When I mentioned you to Peggy, she quickly emailed back and said - "I'm in!" This years film festival is Febr 3-13. It would be great to coordinate Sings Like Hell with the film festival.11/03/2015 5:00PM
Hi Jo-El, I've been working on the music licensing today for "I Want To Be With You Always." It's on your "LA Sessions" album and it has Sonnier International listed as the Publisher. Does that mean your company holds the rights to the recording? I didn't have any luck yet getting through to the right person at Mercury but the 3 people I spoke with didn't think they could help me. I'm on to person #4 tomorrow! I contacted BMI about the songwriting. I was told by filmmaking friends that clearing music is not easy. I hope it's easier for musicians when you want to perform or record someone else's song. Any thoughts about "Sings Like Hell?' Well it looks like you are correct, I do own the rights to that recording but the publishing does belong to Lefty. So I can give you permission to use the song. I'll need to check with my publishing people to see about the license fee. I don't handle that part of the business. I will have my agent contact the lady about the venue you sent me. Thanks for the tip on it. Thank you for your help.11/05/2015 9:23AM
Hi Jo-El, First, I want to tell you how much I love your new song "Healing Song." It made me cry - so beautiful and powerful - and all the musicians - what a treasure to get them all together! My husband and I watched the video several times. I went to the Arcadiana Foundation site to make a contribution. Is there a particular charity you recommend or is a general donation best? Your work in putting all that together reminds me of one of my favorite quotes, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." Margaret Mead. Great news on the licensing front: I got in touch with Peermusic who owns the publishing on Lefty's song and they gave me permission to use it for just $250 a year. Let me know when you find out the fee for licensing the performance. I'm very excited about this project and your generosity of time and spirit and your heartfelt connection to my Daddy have inspired me. Love, Lynn
January 31, 2014
we will miss you forever
One in a million.
September 16, 2012
by pilar reyes
I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to meet this wonderful person. I remember every time he used to come to his daughter, Lynn's house, he was the nicest guy ever. Kenneth was very loving with me and my brother. He always gave us really good advice. Unfortunately he can't give me those advices any more BUT since he is another star in the sky he is guiding me and sending me those warm hugs that he used to give me with the light of that brighter star.Thank you God for giving us the opportunity to meet this special person......ONE IN A MILLION! We are going to miss you.