Mary Agnes Dues-Montgomery, affectionately known as Tootsie, passed away peacefully on the morning of December 19, 2024, at the age of 87. She was born on September 6, 1937, to Edward H. Dues and Adele Muller-Dues in Galveston County, Texas, where she spent most of her life. Mary’s life was a testament to love, generosity, faith, and a steadfast commitment to others.

Mary grew up in Dickinson, Texas, on her family’s homestead, where her parents owned a dairy farm and a commercial nursery. She attended her early years of schooling at Shrine of the True Cross Catholic School and later graduated from Dickinson High School in 1955 where she excelled academically and was active in many extracurricular activities.

After high school, Mary followed her calling to care for others by enrolling at Saint Mary’s Hospital School of Nursing in Galveston. She graduated as a Registered Nurse and began a lifelong career dedicated to healing and service. Mary’s nursing journey was as diverse as it was impactful. She worked in hospitals, served as head nurse in Dr. Parker’s private practice in LaMarque, and eventually became the school nurse at Santa Fe ISD, a position she held for 28 years. Even after her official retirement, Mary continued to care for others, working as a substitute nurse at the school and providing care for the elderly in the local nursing homes. Nursing was not just her profession, it was her calling and her passion. She served God’s calling well.

Mary met and married the love of her life, Orie Lee Montgomery (O.L.), with whom she shared 62 years of marriage. Together, they built a home in Arcadia, which later became part of Santa Fe. They traveled, spent time with family and had a very fun and full life together in the early part of their marriage.

She and O.L. were eventually blessed with and raised 3 children whom they loved dearly. Mary was an amazing mother who instilled in her kids the gift of faith. She taught them the importance of charity, honesty, hard work and education as well as creative thinking and using their imaginations.

Mary’s faith and devotion to others extended far beyond her career and love of family. She was a lifelong parishioner at Shrine of the True Cross where she practiced her love and commitment to God. Her life was a shining example of how to answer His call to serve and love her family, friends and neighbors. She gave freely of her time and talents, always ready to help anyone in need, and with loving kindness. Mary’s faith was indeed the foundation of her life.

Mary was a pillar of the Santa Fe community. She knew and cared for nearly everyone in town and neighboring areas. Her warmth, kindness, and willingness to help others made her a beloved figure. Whether at church, school, or in the broader community, Mary’s presence was a source of light and comfort.

In 2017, after Hurricane Harvey flooded their home, Mary and O.L.  moved to an assisted living facility in Willis, Texas, to be closer to their daughter.

Mary is survived by her daughter Darla Montgomery – Walker and her husband George Walker; sons Brad Montgomery and Mark Montgomery; grandchildren Paxton Walker, Ryan Montgomery, Connor Montgomery, and Faith Montgomery; her brother-in-law Milam Montgomery and his wife Helen; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband O.L. Montgomery, their infant son Joseph Montgomery, her brothers Bob Dues (and wife Bonnie), Jimmie Dues (and wife Mary Lou), and George Dues (and wife Rusty), as well as her grandson Christopher Walker.

Mary’s legacy is one of faith, love, and unwavering service to others. She was a remarkable woman whose life touched many. She will be deeply missed, but forever remembered in the hearts of those she touched.

In her honor, funeral services will be held at the Shrine of the True Cross Catholic Church in Dickinson, Texas on Friday, December 27, 2024. The visitation will begin at 10 AM in the church. The church service/Mass will begin at 11:30 AM. Immediately following that there will be a short graveside service and interment at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Dickinson, Texas.