James Arthur Montgomery, affectionately known as "Jimmy", was born on June 20, 1954, in Spartanburg South Carolina, to the late Mary Montgomery Jones and the late Charlie Wiggleton. He was educated in the Spartanburg County school system and was a graduate of Spartanburg High School.

Jimmy was an accomplished drummer whose gift for music allowed him to serve faithfully in various churches and perform with several bands throughout his life. Music was not just a talent for him, but a joy that flowed freely from his spirit. Known as a jack of all trades, Jimmy possessed a creative and independent nature and embraced life with a free spirit that drew people to him.

In his leisure time, he found peace in gardening and great enjoyment in fishing both of which reflected his love for nature and quiet moments of reflection. Jimmy was loved by many and will be remembered for his kind heart, easygoing demeanor, and the joy he brought into the lives of others. His favorite color was burgundy and he was a devoted member of New Faith International Church.

He was preceded in death along with his parents, by his stepfather, Barron Jones.

Left to cherish his fond and loving memory are his wife, Leola C. Carson Montgomery of Spartanburg, South Carolina; his siblings, Brenda (Joseph) Robinson of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Robert (Victoria) Montgomery of Goose Creek, South Carolina, Sandra Nesbitt of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Tujawana Mazyck of Charlotte, North Carolina, Janet Brown of Moore, South Carolina, Janice Brown of Lumberton, North Carolina, and Joseph (Karen) Jones of Drayton, South Carolina; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

On the morning of Friday January 16, 2026, James transitioned peacefully at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center surrounded by care and comfort. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him yet his memory will forever live on through the lives he touched. James will be remembered for his spirit kindness and the love he shared with family friends and all who were blessed to know him.