As news came out Wednesday morning of the passing of former Phillies president David Montgomery, the outpouring of kind words is an indication of how great a man Montgomery was and how long his legacy will last in a city he truly loved.
Phillies Insider Jim Salisbury put it simply in his article remembering Montgomery, a man who started working for his hometown team in the ticket sales office in 1971. (see story)
"He wasn't just from the City of Brotherly Love. He lived the concept. He was an amazing example of what a good man should be."
Others who knew him well also paid their respects.
David was a pillar of our community and a friend. He always led by example and his impact on the sport of baseball, the Phillies and on the City of Philadelphia will be felt for a very long time.
He will be missed not just for what he did, but for who he was – a leader, a gentlemen and genuine in everything he did…
Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, and the entire Phillies organization.
- Brian Monihan, President NBC Sports Philadelphia
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In partnership with NBC Sports Philadelphia
"I join all Philadelphians in mourning the loss of Dave Montgomery, who helped build the Phillies into one of the preeminent sports franchises in the nation. Dave was a true local success story, a Philly native who worked his way up from the team's sales department to become President, co-owner, and later, Chairman.
"I had the pleasure of knowing Dave, and I know that in the past few years he fought his health battle with the same vigor and courage with which he ran the team. Dave left his mark not just on the Phillies but on all of Philadelphia, particularly in his countless contributions to our city's youth. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, his friends, and the millions of Phillies fans who supported the team during his long tenure."
- Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney
The sadness across baseball, over the passing of one of its most beloved citizens, Phillies chairman David Montgomery, is almost indescribable
Baseball has never had a classier, more dignified, more respected, more upbeat ambassador than him. RIP, David. We'll miss you every day — Jayson Stark (@jaysonst) May 8, 2019
Incredibly sad news about the passing of one of a kind: David Montgomery. The @Phillies & Philadelphia have lost a great man, one who gave his heart to the team & the city and to anyone he met. I was honored to know him. He will be missed but his presence will be felt forever. ❤️ — Amy Fadool Kane (@amyfadoolNBCS) May 8, 2019
RIP David Montgomery. His passion and concern for the Phillies and everyone, and I mean everyone, associated with the team was unmatched. He has been the epitome of class and courage. The world needs more people to live their lives as he did his. — Jim Jackson (@JimJPhilly) May 8, 2019
David Montgomery had been very sick & in hospital
Phillies wanted to make sure 2026 All-Star game was announced so early he could see all of his hard work to bring it back here came to fruition.
David was one of the kindest men you could ever meet. He knew everyone's name #RIP pic.twitter.com/A7sEMHExqj — John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) May 8, 2019
David Montgomery was a special person! I feel blessed to be able to have called him a friend. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. He would never let you call him Mr. Montgomery. RIP David — Dusty Wathan (@dustywathan62) May 8, 2019
RIP, #Phillies chairman David Montgomery, who passed away this morning after a five-year battle with cancer.
Montgomery elevated the game with his class and sheer decency. No executive was more beloved by his employees. — Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) May 8, 2019
Completely crushed by the news of the passing of David Montgomery. Thoughts and prayers are with Lyn and rest of his family. David was the best human I have met in my life. Knew everyone and remembered everyone! We as the @Phillies organization lost our heart and soul! #ripdavid — 𝗞𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗻 𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗲𝗻 (@KevinFrandsen) May 8, 2019
Heartbroken to hear of the passing of a great man and a man that welcomed me into the @Phillies family David Montgomery! RIP my friend u will be missed! 😢 — 🇺🇸BRETT MYERS MUSIC🇺🇸 (@BackWoodRebel39) May 8, 2019
