Bennie Sue Montgomery

Bennie Sue Taubert Montgomery, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away at her home in Cookeville, Tennessee, on February 6, 2025, after a brief illness.

Bennie Sue was born in Jamestown, Tennessee, on December 5, 1943. Her parents, Cordis and Willie Nell Taubert, preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband, James Robert Montgomery, sister Judy West (Jerry), brother Ernie Taubert, daughter Cheryl Montgomery, son James Montgomery (Kelly), grandsons Benjamin and William Silberman, and granddaughter Lillian Montgomery.

She was a graduate of York Institute and Tennessee Technological University. She met her husband, Jim, while they were both attending Tennessee Tech. She taught middle school in Clarkrange before marrying in 1965. After marriage, she briefly lived in Dayton, Ohio. Upon returning to Tennessee, Bennie Sue taught middle school in Gainesboro and later became director of food services for Jackson County Schools before retiring from education to raise her children. After raising Cheryl and Jimmy, she owned and operated a frame shop on the square in Gainesboro.

Bennie Sue enjoyed spending time with her family, who will miss her dearly. She was particularly close with her grandchildren, who affectionately called her Nanny.

She was an avid and skilled golfer, participating in many area tournaments and playing until the end of her life. She loved playing in the dirt and took pride in her flowers and plants, including her beautiful orchids. She was an enthusiastic Titans fan and a long-time season ticket holder.

She was an excellent cook and loved to be in the kitchen preparing food for friends and family, who all enjoyed her cooking. She also enjoyed spending time at the lake, traveling with family and friends, and planning meals for the supper club she and Jim were part of in Gainesboro.

She never met a stranger. Whether it was with people she met as an educator, an administrator, running her frame shop, playing golf, spending time at the lake, or through the supper club, Bennie Sue's outgoing nature and love for people attracted a large and lasting circle of friends who brought her joy. She was raised in the Baptist faith, and after moving to Gainesboro, was a member of the United Methodist Church.

The family will receive friends from 5-7 pm on Thursday, February 13, at Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home in Gainesboro. A private burial will follow on Friday, February 14. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or www.stjude.org; or the charity of your choice in her remembrance.

Anderson Upper Cumberland is in charge of arrangements. 931-268-1550