Mary A. (Montgomery) Knight

THE BEGINNING……..

Mary A. Montgomery-Knight was born June 12, 1938, to the late Henry Pettigrew and Margaret Byrd.  Known in the country, (AS SHE CALLED IT) as “Dolly Blue.”

Mary confessed Christ at an early age.

In 1957, Mary graduated high school,(Greene County Training School,) got married to her High School sweetheart,(Curtis Montgomery,) and moved to Cleveland Ohio. At that time, Curtis was in the United Stated Army. Mary enjoyed traveling with him. She often talked about their travels. Her favorite place, Germany.

In 1968, They purchased the four-suite apartment building at 995 E. 143rd street. This was her pride and joy. Mary often talked about being a young black property owner. Especially leaving the segregated south and coming north. She would explain, “It was still prejudiced, but it was better than the south.” This is where her legacy begins. Mary’s biggest desire was to have a family. Since she was unable to have children of her own they adopted a baby girl. With the help of the late Rev. Robert E. Webster and the Second Ebenezer M. B.C. , as well as family and friends, Veronica Lynniece was brought home May 4, 1974.

THE MIDDLE.

Mary and Curtis divorced in 1981. In, February of 1984, Mary met Bennie Knight. They were married in 1985. Mary and Bennie shared 23 years together. Even after divorce, he remained in the lives of Veronica and her children.

Mary joined Second Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in 1959. She loved being a part of the Ushers ministry. She was the president for well over 15 years. Standing at the door was her favorite post. She also enjoyed being a Sunday School Teacher and singing in the choir. Mary loved God and didn’t mind letting anyone know. Mary made sure Veronica knew him as well. You would often see them at church dressed alike in matching dresses and hats.

For 65 years, Mary was a cosmetologist. She made sure if you sat in her chair, you would definitely come back. That was her “office.” Being in the Beauty Salon was therapy for some and bible study for others. Mary was a counselor and friend. No one was a stranger because she loved with Gods love. She helped any and everyone.

She donated time to the children’s home by doing their hair for free before school started. She donated to local charities, and faithfully worked at the school her grandchildren attended until her health prevented it.

Mary was also a bowler. She bowled on various teams throughout the years. She was also an active member of the Ohio Eastern Star, Ecclesiastes #101.

THE CONCLUSION:

On January 23, 2023, God decide he was ready for her to come home. Mary departed from this world peacefully at the Promedica Skilled Nursing facility.

Preceded in death by her parents, granddaughter Cheztez Marcia Ellington, sister/cousin Eva Bess, and a host of friends and family.

Mary leaves to cherish her memory: daughter Veronica Montgomery. Two granddaughters Domien’que Montgomery and I’mani Ellington. 12 grandchildren: Na’Lani Montgomery, Jacquez Montgomery, Jayel Ellington, DiOnna Montgomery, Ja’mari White, J’Sire Ellington, Chloe White, Diion Brown Jr, Journee White, Chloe White, A’Dore White, A’LeeYah and A’LaiYah Jones. She also leaves to cherish her memory, her bonus daughters Tamika (Steven) Croom, Keisha Edmonds. Bonus sons: Maurice Ellington, Anthony and Michael Walker, Kwas Bibb. Goddaughter: Rochelle Black, Grandson: Steven Jones. And a host of bonus grandchildren cousins, family and friends.

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