Alice Hill Montgomery, lovingly known to family and friends as "Sal" or "Sally," passed away peacefully on September 30, 2026, at the age of 89. She has now been reunited with her beloved husband, Dean Montgomery; her parents, Olive and Ben Hill; and all of her brothers and sisters who preceded her in death.

Born on July 27, 1937, in Elmira, New York, Sally was one of fifteen children, with twelve brothers and two sisters. She was the second youngest of the family and shared a special bond with her twin brother, Sam. As the last surviving member of her generation, Sally carried forward the stories, traditions, and spirit of a remarkable family.

In 1977, at the age of 40, Sally moved to North Carolina, where she built a life filled with adventure, accomplishment, and lasting friendships. She was married to the love of her life, Dean Montgomery, for forty years. Together they shared a life of travel, hard work, and unwavering devotion.

Sally lived a life that was anything but ordinary. She was a licensed pilot, an accomplished golfer who won two LPGA tournaments, and a long-haul truck driver who traveled the country alongside her husband. Together they hauled explosives and other highly sensitive government cargo, a testament to the trust, professionalism, and responsibility they carried throughout their careers.

Never one to slow down, Sally continued to excel in every endeavor she pursued. At 73 years young, she was honored as Manager of the Year at the Handy Mart in Swansboro, North Carolina, reflecting her strong work ethic, leadership, and dedication to others.

Sally was also an active member and former Queen of the Aqua Bella Red Hats, where her joyful spirit, humor, and friendship touched countless lives. She had a gift for making people feel welcome and cared for, and she was truly loved by all who knew her.

In addition to her many human companions, Sally had a special love for her cherished dogs, Tippi and Tobi, who brought her great comfort and companionship.

Sally is survived by her extensive Hill family, numbering in the hundreds, and those who weren't blood, but were considered family, as well as many dear friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness, strength, and unforgettable personality.

Sal also had deep and abiding faith. She formed a very special bond with Pastor Alex and his family and the church community at the Bridge in Horseheads.

A special thank you to Riverpoint Crest in New Bern and the nursing staff who took such great care of Ms. Alice in her last years and provided special care in her last few hours. 

To know Sally was to know someone who embraced life wholeheartedly. She was adventurous, hardworking, independent, and fiercely loyal. Her remarkable stories, infectious laughter, and generous heart will be remembered and cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit will live on in the many lives she touched and the countless memories she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Sally's honor to the Carteret County Humane Society at 853 Hibbs Road, Newport, NC 28570. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.

"Those we love don't go away. They walk beside us every day."

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.