Former UUP Mayor Jim Montgomery has been remembered as “fair, selfless, and empathetic” following his sudden death on Monday.
Also known as ‘Gentleman Jim’, Mr Montgomery was co-opted onto Antrim and Newtownabbey Council in 2015 and went on to become mayor of the area. He lost his seat in the 2023 election.
Mr Montgomery’s sister, Shauneen, confirmed on social media last night that her brother had passed away.
“With great sadness that we as a family we have to announce the passing of our dear brother Jim Montgomery suddenly, funeral arrangements to follow house open to pay respects from 12pm to 8pm 19 tower link,” read the social media post.
Ulster Unionist Party leader, Mike Nesbitt said: “I am extremely sad to learn of the passing of party colleague, former Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor and former Mayor, Jim Montgomery.
“Jim was an extremely popular individual because he was fair, selfless and empathetic. It was always reassuring to see Jim in the room because whatever the occasion you could be assured common sense would prevail.
“On behalf of the Ulster Unionist Party, I offer my sincere condolences to his family and friends.”
South Antrim MP, Robin Swann added: “I am so sad to hear the passing of Jim Montgomery. Jim will be greatly missed by not just the Ulster Unionist Party in South Antrim but the people of Antrim who he had so ably represented in Council, and as Mayor.
“His firm, fair and friendly guiding hand and advice, will be sadly missed.”
Mr Montgomery was also chairman of the South Antrim Association of the UUP. In a post on social media last night, Mr Swann shared that he had just been re-elected as chair of the association on Friday.
“Jim was a very prominent political figure in South Antrim and in particular, the town of Antrim, a town that he was immensely proud to represent and a town that had a strong affinity to, as everyone knew him as ‘Gentleman Jim’,” added Steve Aiken, South Antrim MLA.
“All of our Parties’ thoughts are with his family, especially, Gordon, Stephen and Nigel.
“Jim, safe into the night, you are in our prayers and you will be missed.”
In a post on social media, the Ballyclare District Historical Memorial Association said Mr Montgomery was “not only a respected leader but a true servant of the people”.
“It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of our dear friend and esteemed colleague, Jim Montgomery,” said a spokesperson for the association.
“As one of the founding members of the Ballyclare District Historical Memorial Association, Jim’s unwavering dedication and passion for preserving our history will forever be remembered.
“Jim was not only a respected leader but a true servant of the people. Throughout his time as Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, he worked tirelessly for everyone, serving with fairness, integrity, and a genuine heart for his community.
“His kindness, wisdom, and steadfast commitment to those he represented will leave a lasting legacy.
“He will be sorely missed by all his friends in Ballyclare, Antrim, and Ballymena No. 4, and by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
“We extend our deepest and most heartfelt sympathy to his entire family circle at this time of great loss. May God’s comfort and strength be with you all.”
The Silent Rascals Ride Out Club, a club for motorcyclist enthusiasts of all ages, shared a tribute to Mr Montgomery thanking him for “his support, encouragement and camaraderie”.
“Jim was a true friend to the Silent Rascals Motorcycle Enthusiast Ride Out Club, always offering his support, encouragement, advice and camaraderie. His kindness, generosity, and passion for our club and community will never be forgotten,” said a spokesperson for the club.
“Jim’s presence will be deeply missed by us all, but his legacy and the memories we shared will forever ride on in our hearts.
“We extend our deepest sympathy to his entire family circle at this difficult time.”
A funeral notice said Mr Montgomery passed away suddenly at home on Monday, February 3.
A Service of Thanksgiving for Jim’s life will be held in High Street Presbyterian Church, Steeple Road, Antrim BT41 1DN on Friday February, 7 2025 at 12.30pm.