Thelma I. Montgomery, 82, of Dowagiac passed away Sunday, Dec. 20, 2009 at Lakeland Hospital in Niles.

Thelma’s life began Jan. 26, 1927 in Hardy, Ark., where she was born to Henry and Ollie (Lawson) Allen. Thelma was united in marriage to James W. Montgomery on May 11, 1965 in Lyons, Kan. She attended the Church of Christ. She worked for many years as a dry cleaner.

Thelma’s loving family includes her stepsons, Jim Ray (Barbara) Montgomery of San Antonio, Texas, Jimmy M. Montgomery of Hutchinson, Kan.; stepdaughters, Barbara Kelley of Wichita, Kansas, Mary Jo (Bill) Ritzdoff of Hutchinson, Kan., and Kathy Montgomery of Burton, Kan.; her brothers, Therman (Barbara) Allen of Huron, Ind., twins, Marlin (LouAnn) Allen, Marvin (Charlene) Allen, both from Cassopolis and numerous stepgrandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James; stepdaughter, Betty Jean Goff; and her brother, Willie Allen.

Her family will gathered Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Yazel-Clark Chapel. Her graveside funeral services will be held at Fairlawn Burial Park and Memorial Mausoleum in Hutchinson, Kan. under the direction of Elliott Mortuary, (620) 663-3327.

Please sign her memory book and leave a memory of Thelma at www.yazel-clark.com.