Robert R. Montague - Obituary

obert Randolph Montague was born December 11, 1937, in Washington, DC. He was the third of eight children born to the union of the late Robert Montague & Estelle (Forster) Montague. A life-long resident of Washington, DC, Robert attended Universal Holiness Church every Sunday with his parents and siblings. Robert was educated in the District of Columbia Public School System and graduated in 1956 from Phelps Vocational High School. After graduation, he enlisted and served in the U.S. Army with tours in Fort Benning, GA, Travis Airforce Base, CA and Schofield Barracks in Hawaii. Following his active-duty service, Robert served three years reserve duty with the Washington DC National Guard. At the end of his military service, Robert enrolled in night classes at American University and began his career of 10 years with St. Elizabeth's Hospital where he trained and served as a nurse attendant working with patients with mental and physical health issues. He was later promoted to 1st Line supervisor. Through his work at St. Elizabeth, Robert learned compassion for people, especially the sick, and how to deal with situations in a calm manner; traits that he demonstrated throughout his life through his care and support of family and friends. Robert continued his career at Potomac Electric Power Co (PEPCO) working in the meter reading department and was eventually promoted to a Supervisor of Meter Readers & Budgets. He retired in March 1998 after 31 years of dedicated service & leadership. Robert was married to Beverly A. Montague, his devoted wife of 50 years. Together they enjoyed watching football games, especially the Washington Redskins, watching the Super Bowl with their group of close friends and attending games at National’s Park. He was an avid reader and enjoyed watching CNN, PBS, and other educational and informative programs. Robert was knowledgeable about every topic and he and Beverly would debate on any topic, and he always enjoyed being right. Robert was also a loving, dedicated & supportive father to his daughters, Karen & Cheryl. He always attended their school programs, activities, and was an active part of their life. He was very proud of his daughters academic, professional, and personal accomplishments and would not hesitate to brag on his girls. Although they were the apple of his eye, Robert, affectionally known as ‘PaPa’, found even greater joy as the grandfather to Korli and Nathaniel. From the moment they were born he loved and doted over them, enjoyed spending time together and talking to them on the phone, always imparting his wisdom of life, and encouraging them to always strive for excellence and to be good people. Robert took his role as the oldest surviving brother very seriously and always made time to check on his brothers and sisters through their regular phone call chain. He was a great family man and valued the legacy of the Montague name. On Monday, January 17th, 2022, after a short stay in the hospital, Robert Randolph Montague departed this life, leaving his earthly body to be with the Lord. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Estelle Montague; daughter Karen Montague-Bridges; Stepson, Randy Nelson; Brother Andrew Montague; and Sister Pearl Montague. Robert leaves to cherish his memory devoted wife, Beverly Montague; daughter Cheryl Montague; Grandchildren Korli Bridges and Nathaniel Harris; Brothers Clifton O & Morris Montague; Sisters Thelma Harley, Doris Cannatella and Laverne Orr; son-in-law Clarence Bridges; nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of relatives and friends. Relatives and friends are invited to Robert's Life Celebration on Wednesday, February 2, 2022 from 10 a.m. until the start of the service at 11 a.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Interment National Harmony Memorial Park, 7101 Sheriff Rd, Hyattsville, MD 20785.