George R. Montgomery ’47

After serving in the Navy as a pharmacist's mate, George returned to Princeton and graduated in 1949.

He hastened back to his beloved hometown, New Orleans, married Ann Kock in 1950, earned an MBA from Tulane in 1951, and became a founding partner of a successful local advertising and public relations firm.

From the outset, George distinguished himself as a civic activist par excellence. He served on the boards of the New Orleans Museum of Art, New Orleans Symphony, and the Interracial Council of Business Opportunity, among others.

Closest to his heart was a long-term, ultimately successful project to transform New Orleans' Audubon Zoo from a local embarrassment to a national treasure. He also helped in the election of New Orleans' celebrated mayor, Moon Landrieu, who later praised George as "an incredible friend . . . The city is deeply indebted to him."

George was a loyal, energetic alumnus who served our class and Louisiana alumni activities in many capacities.

After a long illness, George died Feb. 15, 2007.

Celebrating his enviable record of service to others, we send fond wishes and sympathy to George's beloved family, his wife, Ann, and their three children.