Phillies chairman David Montgomery died this morning at 72 years of age after a five-year battle with cancer. MLBTR extends its best wishes to his loved ones.
Montgomery was a self-made Philadelphia native who earned his way into the University of Pennsylvania and then worked up the ladder in the Phillies organization. He ultimately bought the club along with Bill Giles in 1981, becoming president in 1997.
Montgomery was forced to the sideline upon the initial diagnosis of cancer of the jaw in August of 2014. But he was able to take on some of his prior duties as president and CEO of the ballclub by early 2015.
In recent years, Montgomery has helped to oversee a leadership transition. John Middleton stepped into a much more visible role as the leader of the ownership group (of which Montgomery was also a part). Andy MacPhail was hired as president in the summer of 2015, taking over fully from Pat Gillick that fall and installing Matt Klentak as GM.
Over his many years in baseball, Montgomery developed a stellar reputation. Tyler Kepner of the New York Times documented his story in 2008. As Jayson Stark of The Athletic puts it, “baseball has never had a classier, more dignified, more respected, more upbeat ambassador.”
must have died a happy man seeing the team doing well. rest in peace!
Rest In Peace Mr. Montgomery!
As a Phillies fan for over 30 years, I am saddened by the news of the passing of DM. He was a great man, and loved his team, as well as the city of brotherly love. He was a kind gentleman , and never shy’ed away from a fan. Hopefully this motivates the team to bring another trophy back to the city
a great man who did quite well for himself and for this city. Rest in Peace Mr. Montgomery.
Rest in peace Mr. Montgomery. <3
Much love and respect. You will be missed.
RIP
Great man who did great things for the Phillies and the city. Rest in Peace.
Rest in peace Sir.
Rest In Paradise
RIP
A loved man working for the Phils for 50 years
An institution for both the team the city. Rest easy David.
Rest In Peace and May God Bless you and your Phillies family at this time.
RIP