Dede M L Montgomery

7/7/1939 – 9/18/2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Dede M L Montgomery. Dede, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, nurse, and woman of unwavering faith peacefully entered into eternal rest surrounded by family on September 18th 2025 at the age of 86.

Born on July 7th 1939 in Collegeville PA, Dede lived a life defined by compassion, service, faith, and strength. She dedicated her life to the care of others working for many years as a Registered Nurse and later as a Hospice Nurse. She offered comfort and dignity to patients and families during their most vulnerable moments. Her hands brought healing and her presence brought peace.

During her career as a Nurse, Dede went on a blind date to meet the love of her life, William (Bill). They married February 11, 1961. Dede and Bill had two beautiful daughters together, Susan and Jody. The couple celebrated 62 loving years together before Bills passing in June of 2023.

A woman of deep religious conviction, Dede was a faithful member of St Francis of Assisi Parish where she served her community with grace and humility. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life guiding her every step and shining through in her love, kindness, and generosity.

Above all she cherished her family. Dede is survived by her daughters Susan Montgomery, Jody and husband Carl Janson, Her grandchildren Caitlin and husband Daniel McLeod, Emmaline Janson, Her great-grandchildren Shain and Tyler, Her brothers Tommy Gilman, Merrill Stebbins, and many extended family members.

Dede is predeceased by her husband William Montgomery, her grandson Steven Janson, her adopted mother and father Doris Pocock and Edgar Longaker, her birth mother and father Ginny Gilman and Donald Stebbins, Her brothers Bruce Longaker, Bobby Gilman, Timmy Gilman and David Gilman.

Her legacy of care, faith and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be remembered as a nurturing matriarch, a guiding light and a source of endless love and wisdom.

A memorial mass for Dede will be held on October 17, 2025, 11:00am at St Francis of Assisi Church, 4700 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, NJ 08008.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to St Francis of Assisi Parish in her memory.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23