Lamont "Monty" Walker

With profound sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Lamont Monty Walker, 61, of Springfield, MA on September 12, 2021. 

A loving and devoted husband, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend.  Monty was born to Marion B. Sr. and Annie Mae Lamarr Walker on July 5, 1960, in the Bronx, New York City, NY.  The youngest of five siblings, Monty graduated from Adlai E. Stevenson High School with an award of excellence in instrumental music.  Nicknamed Mr. Jazz by Marion Sr., Monty was a gifted percussionist.  He played in his high school senior and jazz bands, and several jazz quartets post college.  He attended Greensboro College and majored in music.  He was well loved and respected at Farm Credit Financial Partners (FPI) where he worked for 13 years.

Monty met his beloved wife, Cindi in 1983, and they married in 1988.  Cindi was the center of Monty’s universe from the moment he met her.  They were an exceptional team and had the kind of love people truly envy. Their commitment to each other was an inspiration to all.

If you asked a million people who Monty was, they will likely all say the same thing.  Sincere.  Kind.  Gentle.  Selfless.  Compassionate.  Humble.  Brave.  Deeply committed to his family.  In an Instagram era, Monty was the exact opposite of attention seeking.  He was honorable and dedicated, and craved no praise.  Rather he always did the right thing because it was the right thing, not because it would be flashed all over social media.  He was a source of positivity and kindness.

Monty was a family man.  This was evident in the love and care he and Cindi provided for his Mom during her long illness.  Monty and Cindi moved Annie into their home and effectively dedicated their lives to providing the most optimal care possible to her during her final years.

He found happiness through music, whether it took the shape of playing his drums, teaching himself to play the keyboard, listening to vinyl LPs, or reading about his favorite jazz artists.  Monty was a talented drummer, but true to his humble nature you would never know it until you heard him play.  He was also a great athlete, stayed physically active his entire life, and enjoyed running.  The simplest pleasures provided Monty with the most happiness including walks with Cindi, catching up with friends and family, and watching movies.

Monty is survived by his wife and soul mate, Cynthia Hope Johnson Walker, brother, Marion B. Walker and his wife Donna Champ Walker of Petaluma, CA, and sister Yvonne Walker Johnson of Reston, VA.  Predeceasing Lamont were his Mom and Dad, Marion and Annie, and sisters, Michelle Walker Johnson and Angela Walker.  Extended family whom Monty loved and who will miss him profoundly include his uncles and their spouses.  Many nieces and nephews are also grieving his passing.

The family wishes to note the devoted care provided by the love of his life Cindi, her father Robert, Wanda and Carl, Robin, Janet, June and Robert Trent.  Their dedication and support was unparalleled.  In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Lamont’s memory to the Dakin Humane Society, 171 Union Street, Springfield, MA 01105.  Funeral services were private.

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