Tributes paid to former UUP Antrim and Newtownabbey Mayor Jim Montgomery following sudden death
Tributes have been paid to former UUP Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Jim Montgomery, whose sudden death was announced on Monday evening.
Jim Montgomery was elected to Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in 2015 as a representative for the Antrim DEA and served as Mayor between 2020 and 2021. Mr Montgomery subsequently lost his seat at the 2023 Local Election.
Announcing Jim's passing, UUP leader Mike Nesbitt described him as "fair, selfless and empathetic."
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“I am extremely sad to learn of the passing of party colleague, former Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor and former Mayor, Jim Montgomery. Jim was an extremely popular individual because he was fair, selfless and empathetic. It was always reassuring to see Jim in the room because whatever the occasion you could be assured common sense would prevail.
“On behalf of the Ulster Unionist Party, I offer my sincere condolences to his family and friends.”
UUP South Antrim MP Robin Swann said that he had just been reelected as the party's South Antrim Association chairman at their AGM on Friday.
"Jim was Chair of the South Antrim Association, having just been reelected at our Annual General Meeting on Friday night past. Where, as ever, his personality and ability saw a wide-ranging conversation and debate," he said.
"Jim will be greatly missed by not just the Ulster Unionist Party in South Antrim but the people of Antrim who he had so ably represented in Council and as Mayor.
"His firm, fair and friendly guiding hand and advice will be sadly missed."
Steve Aiken, South Antrim MLA added: “Jim was a very prominent political figure in South Antrim and in particular, the town of Antrim, a town that he was immensely proud to represent and a town that had a strong affinity to, as everyone knew him as ‘Gentleman Jim’.
“All of our Parties' thoughts are with his family, especially, Gordon, Stephen and Nigel. Jim, safe into the night, you are in our prayers and you will be missed.”
DUP Junior Minister Pam Cameron took to X to pay tribute to Jim, whom she described as a friend to her and her husband.
"Just devastated to learn of Jim Montgomery's passing. Jim was a good, kind and supportive friend to Michael and I. As a past councillor and Mayor he served Antrim town with pride and passion. He will be much missed," she said.
Alliance MLA John Blair also paid tribute as he reflected on the "lasting happy memories" of Jim.
"Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jim Montgomery, former Antrim and Newtownabbey Mayor and dedicated Councillor for Antrim Town," he said.
"Jim's courteous manner, friendly approach and willingness to engage across the political spectrum has left lasting and happy memories for so many of us.
"My sincere sympathy to his family and his many friends."
Sinn Féin Councillor Annemarie Logue said that she was "shocked and saddened" by Jim's passing.
"Back when I was deputy mayor in 2019 , he always made me feel welcome at events I attended in Antrim. He was true gentleman with a kind heart . May he rest in peace," she said.
Ballyclare District Historical Memorial Association, of which Jim was a founding member said that Jim was a "true servant of the people".
"It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of our dear friend and esteemed colleague, Jim Montgomery. As one of the founding members of the Ballyclare District Historical Memorial Association, Jim’s unwavering dedication and passion for preserving our history will forever be remembered," they said.
"Jim was not only a respected leader but a true servant of the people. Throughout his time as Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, he worked tirelessly for everyone, serving with fairness, integrity, and a genuine heart for his community. His kindness, wisdom, and steadfast commitment to those he represented will leave a lasting legacy.
"He will be sorely missed by all his friends in Ballyclare, Antrim, and Ballymena No. 4, and by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
"We extend our deepest and most heartfelt sympathy to his entire family circle at this time of great loss. May God’s comfort and strength be with you all."
Meanwhile, Silent Rascals Motorcycle Enthusiast Ride Out Club paid tribute to their "dear friend and supporter".
"It is with great sadness that we mourn the passing of our dear friend and supporter, Jim Montgomery. Jim was a true friend to the Silent Rascals Motorcycle Enthusiast Ride Out Club, always offering his support, encouragement, advice and camaraderie. His kindness, generosity, and passion for our club and community will never be forgotten," they said.
"Jim’s presence will be deeply missed by us all, but his legacy and the memories we shared will forever ride on in our hearts.
"We extend our deepest sympathy to his entire family circle at this difficult time. Forever in our hearts."
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