...about town with Mayor Bob
8/31/2018
...about Town With Mayor Bob
August 2018
Today is a very solemn day for the community of Decatur, Arkansas, as we struggle to cope wtih a great loss. William R. Montgomery, born December 23, 1955, and known to all of us as Bill, departed this life on August 30, 2018. Bill was a part of the foundation of this community. He leaves a legacy behind that inspires all of us to serve our community and others with great pride. As I think about Bill and his life here in the community, it has occurred to me that we can learn what characteristics it takes to leave a legend that lives on.
When I think of Bill, the words of ambition, dedication, determination, vision, and loyalty all come to mind. Bill was a determined, loyal, and dedicated hard worker. In 1973, while still in high school, Bill acquired a job working as a teller for Decatur State Bank. After graduating from high school in 1974, Bill continued his banking career with Decatur State Bank until 2008. Over his 35 years of service, Bill furthered his education by attending classes with ABA (Arkansas Bankers Association), and in the 1980s served on their board. It is safe to say that Bill believed firmly in stiving to make one's self better.
Furthermore, Bill's ambition to serve his community through the bank spilled over into his decision to become a public servant. Bill served as Alderman on the City Council when the opportunity arose for him to step into office the last two years of the late Honorable Jack Wilmoth's term and served as "pro tempore." When the term ended, Bill served as Mayor of Decatur, from 1995 to 2010.
In 2016 Alderman David Sutton resigned from City Council, and Bill continued to serve the community by being appointed as Alderman of Ward 2, Position 2 of the City Council and as a Council Liaison on the Planning and Zoning Board where he maintained those seats until today.
Bill gave me great inspiration on what it takes to make the most out of life and to enjoy what you are given. When he was diagnosed with his afflictions, I saw in him what I hope to one-day pass on to others. Bill was determined to be a part of this community even on days that his afflictions drained him of his strength.
During the past several months, Bill was not able to attend City Council meetings, but he would call me to find out how the meetings went. Always, wanting to know how the finances were, how are the employees, and how is the town. He dearly loved Decatur.
At this point, I would like to close by saying to Michal Lea and their family that we as a community are truly sorry for your loss. May God bless you and keep you through this time. Joy and I will continue to pray for your family and support you as your Mayor and friend throughout the coming days.
To Bill, I would like to say, thank you for what you have taught us. Thank you for your service to Decatur. Thank you for your caring heart, and you will be greatly missed. My friend, you fought a great battle so rejoice in your Heavenly reward.
Mayor Bob and Joy Tharp, Decatur City Council, Decatur City Employees, Decatur Police Department, Decatur Volunteer Fire Department, and your City-Decatur Arkansas
Mayor Bob Tharp.