Robert William Montgomery, of Hartford City, Indiana, passed away peacefully in his home on September 1, 2026, at the age of 81, surrounded by his immediate family.

Born on October 16, 1944, in Hartford City, Robert was the son of Christina (Philebaum) Montgomery and Harold Montgomery. He was a loving son, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, companion, and friend whose kind heart and steady presence brought comfort to the people around him.

Robert was deeply devoted to his family and took great pride in the people he loved. He treasured time spent with family and friends, especially during gatherings filled with conversation, laughter, and shared memories. Some of his happiest moments were spent riding horses with those close to him—memories that will remain especially dear to the people who shared them with him. He was known as Bob to most.

A hardworking man, Bob believed in taking care of his family, helping others, and doing things the right way. He gave his love generously and was someone others could depend on. His warmth, loyalty, and quiet strength shaped the lives of those around him, and his legacy will live on through the family and friends who were fortunate to know and love him.

Robert is survived by his oldest daughter, Machelle Hershey, husband Todd Hershey, and daughter, Taylor Hershey; his late daughter Marcie Traylor’s children Siara Michael and husband Doug, Desiree Trees and Brandon Traylor; and youngest daughter Misty Taylor, husband, Shawn Taylor, and their children, Zach Reid and wife Emily, Cody Reid and companion Brook; Hannah Licht and husband Taylor; Chelsie Taylor and companion Russell, Ty Taylor and wife Diana, and Sidney Taylor. Bob has several great grandchildren.

Bob’s wonderful siblings are Roberta Jones, Wanda Knuckles, Norma Heistand, Janet McDonald, Richard Montgomery, Franny Eikenbary, Hap Montgomery, and Marilyn Montgomery**. His brother Rodger Montgomery is still missed. He passed away October 29, 2007.

Bob will also be deeply missed by his companion Paula Elliott of Hartford City and her sons, Jonathan Byrd, Joshua Byrd and Jeremy Byrd.

A private service honoring Bob’s life will be held Tuesday, prior to the public burial service, per his wishes. Graveside service will be at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday at Gardens of Memory, 10703 N. St. Rd. 3, Muncie, Indiana. Friends are invited to arrive at Gardens of Memory at 12:45 p.m. Tuesday. Park behind the office, to join Bob’s transition, to his brother Hap’s horse drawn carriage. Hap will give Bob his “last ride” to the gravesite.

Though Robert will be deeply missed, his family takes comfort in the memories he gave them, the love he shared, and the lasting example he leaves behind. His life will continue through the stories told, the traditions carried on, and the family he cherished so deeply.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Midwest Equine Trail Foundation, 3158 East County Line Road 200 South, Dillsboro, Indiana 47018.

“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day.”

Please visit WatersFunerals.com to sign the guestbook or share a memory with his family.