Obituary of Mari L. Montgomery

Mari Omwahli (Sylvester) Montgomery, 72, of Syracuse, passed away on February 20, 2021, surrounded by her loving family. She was born Awkesasne, Ontario, Canada in 1948 to the late David and Cecelia (Delormie) Sylvester. She was a proud member of the Mohawk Nation, Bear Clan. She was a wild spirit who survived many battles. At a very young age she was forced to survive residential school and a broken system. She came out on top with more love to give than the world was ready for.

Mari had a contagious smile. Her laugh and sarcasm was how she won your heart. She was a one of a kind Onkwehonwe Warrior Woman, who will be missed beyond words. She leaves behind a tremendous legacy of love, loyalty, and family.

She is survived by: children, Tamra Cook, Brian, Michael, and Christopher Montgomery; grandchildren, Ashley, Amanda, Roxanne, Nick, Katie, Brian, Cecelia, Christopher, Jr., Michael, Joey, Sophia, Spirit, Cree, Lily “Lil Mari”; great grandchildren: Mathew, Johnny, Jayden, Serenity, Zaya, Zoey, Summer, Anaya, Brison, Oliver, Aria, Jack, Thomas, and Jayce. She is predeceased by: husbands, Wilson C. Cook, and Alan L. Montgomery; sons, Thomas R. Hall, Buster Wilson Cook II; grandsons, Mathew Montgomery, Eric Cook; and great grandson, Jackson.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, February 24 from 5 pm to 8 pm, at Ballweg & Lunsford Funeral Home, Syracuse. Mari will be laid out at her home at 111 Michaels Ave., Syracuse, on Thursday; where family may visit. Mari will then journey home to Akwesasne to be laid out at her home on the Mohawk Reservation until her memorial fire ends on Tuesday, March 2.

Friends may plant a memorial tree or order flowers for services by using the Send Flowers link on Mary’s obituary. To light a memorial candle, or leave online condolences, please visit Mari’s Tribute Wall.