Larry Dean Montgomery

Larry Dean Montgomery passed away surrounded by family in his home in Topeka, Kansas on November 3rd, 2026. Born in Stafford, Kansas on September 18, 1937 he embarked on a life dedicated to making the world a better place through a devotion to politics, religion, and his family.

His dear friend Raleigh Amyx penned a sharpie written caption on a photo of Larry talking to his wife, Gwendolyn. He wrote that Larry was telling her he needed to catch a plane in the morning because he was off to save the world again. And, while that may have been a stretch, it was not far off the mark.

Larry met the love of his life, Gwendolyn Matthews, while earning his Political Science degree from Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas. They married on September 10, 1960 and remained by each other's side for 66 years.

While in school, he participated in a program called The Heifer Project through which he helped deliver roughly 45 Kansas cows to Eastern Europe. This intercontinental cattle drive solidified Larry’s dedication to helping those in need.

After graduating from Southwestern College, Larry went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from George Washington Law University in Washington D.C. where he started his career with a position in the State Department and the Foreign Service Institute.

Throughout his career, Larry held many positions including Council to the Legislature in Alaska and President of US Wheat. He was also widely respected for his work in the gaming industry, which included becoming the first lottery director in Kansas as well as setting up lotteries in many other countries.

Larry was known for his endless positivity. He always had a kind word and a smile for anyone he met. He brought energy and warmth wherever he went, and his presence left a lasting impression on family, friends, and colleagues alike. His caring attitude even carried over into his ranching where he always made sure the animals ate first. At Flint Valley Ranch, he and Gwen cared for a variety of animals but Larry may have loved his Belted Galloways the most.

He also had an adventurous spirit and would dive head first into hobbies like skiing, boating, ranching, playing the piano, and traveling. He was never alone in these hobbies and always had Gwen by his side and often Marshall, Gary, and Heidi in tow.

He is survived by his wife, Gwen Montgomery; his sons, Marshall Montgomery and Gary (Karen) Montgomery; and his daughter, Heidi Martin. He is also survived by his brother, Bob Montgomery. Larry’s legacy continues through the younger generations of his family, including Gary’s children, Aaron Montgomery, David Montgomery, and Katherine Montgomery, as well as Heidi’s children, Haley Crampton, Holly Howerton, and Zane Martin. Each of them was part of the family life that meant so much to him, and they will carry forward the memory of his strength, positivity, humor, kindness, and love.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Montgomery, and his mother, Mary Blanche Montgomery.

Larry Dean Montgomery will be remembered as a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, accomplished professional, and a man whose outgoing spirit and generous heart touched many lives. His memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.