Dallas Morning News
Sunday, 26 September 2010

Gordon Montgomery

Born February 11, 1922, in Fort Worth. Died in Dallas, September 15, 2010. His parents were Henry Grady and Annabelle Holloman Montgomery.

Gordon grew up in Abilene and graduated from high school there in 1939. At Hardin Simmons, which he finished in 1943, he participated in debate and drama, and was voted a member of Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities.

After college he served with the 87th Infantry in the European Theatre. He captured a German machine gun nest, and, on another occasion, 53 enemy soldiers surrendered to him. He was awarded the Purple Heart and Silver Star.

In 1949, Gordon graduated from the University of Texas Law School. He began his law practice in Abilene and also taught government at Hardin Simmons. Following that, Gordon served under Henry Wade in Dallas as an Assistant District Attorney.

He then worked for the federal government in Mexico, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and San Antonio. In 1985, he resumed the practice of law in Dallas.

Gordon had one sister, Nancy Merle Montgomery. She predeceased him. Both of them cherish childhood memories of spending time in Forney with their Aunt Effie Montgomery and Uncle Sylvester I. Chapman at the time of their father’s extended illness and death.

Dorothy Layne Hendrick, a cousin, maintained close ties with Gordon until the end.

Don T. Cates, friend and colleague from their days at the District Attorney’s office, helped Gordon manage his affairs during the last months of his life.

During his retirement, Dale and other friends and helpers at Vickery Towers and Avalon Care Homes meant a great deal to him.

At his request, Gordon’s body has been given to the Southwestern Medical School in Dallas.