In the early morning hours of Saturday, July 4, 2026, Chiquita Jones Montgomery, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother and great-grandmother, beloved sister, aunt, and friend, entered eternal rest at MUSC Florence.

    Chiquita was born in Florence County, South Carolina, on December 31, 1952, to the late Ervin Jones, Sr. and Margaret Williams Jones. She was raised in a loving family and was one of eight children. She shared many cherished memories with her siblings: Pauline Jones McClam, Henry Jones, Maxine Jones, Ervin Jones, Jr., Gertrude Jones McClam, Gloria Champaign, all whom have preceded her in death, and her youngest sibling, Lento Jones of Lake City, South Carolina.

     At an early age, Chiquita accepted Christ as her Savior and joined Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church. Her faith was a meaningful part of her life and could be seen in the way she loved her family, served others, and cared for those around her.

     Chiquita attended the Florence public school system and graduated in 1972. It was there that she met the love of her life, Carnell Montgomery and later married on September 19, 1975. Together, they built a life rooted in love, family, and faith.

     To their union, four children were born: Antonio, Vaughn, who preceded her in death, Nina, and Turquoise.

     Chiquita had a heart for family. She was a nurturer, protector, and steady presence in the lives of those she loved. She helped raise two of her grandchildren, Carnell Antonio and Austin, giving them the same love, care, and guidance she gave to her own children. She also raised her niece, Chiquita Jones, affectionately named after her, a beautiful reflection of the love and legacy she carried within her family.

    Chiquita also dedicated many years of service to others. She worked with Florence School District Three and Ronald E. McNair Nursing Home, where she served with kindness and care. She later retired from Lake City Migrant Head Start after 20 plus years of faithful service. Her work reflected who she was: dependable, compassionate, patient, and giving.

     Chiquita’s life was marked by faith, family, and love. She treasured time with her loved ones and found joy in the simple moments that brought family together. Her presence brought comfort, her words carried wisdom, and her love made others feel seen and valued.

     She will be remembered for her laughter, her strength, her tenderness, and the love she poured into every life she touched.

     Left to cherish her precious memories are her loving husband, Carnell Montgomery; her children, Antonio (Sara) Montgomery of Scranton, SC, Nina (Ned) Blake and Turquoise Montgomery of Florence, SC; the grandchildren she helped raise, Carnell Antonio and Austin of the home; her niece, Chiquita Jones of Florence, SC; her youngest sibling, Lento Jones of Lake City, SC; her mother-in-law, Mildred Montgomery of Lake City, SC; her sisters-in-law, Gloria Ann (Alvin) Moore and Debra Mann, both of New York; Michae (Thomas) McKenzie and Sheila Toney, both of Lake City, SC; her brothers-in-law, Michael (Sherion) Toney and Christopher Toney, both of Lake City, SC; her beautiful grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.

     Though her earthly journey has ended, Chiquita’s love, faith, and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.