Forrester Norvale Montgomery

Forrester “Norvale” Montgomery was born on May 11, 1950 in Beckley, West Virginia to George and Verline Edwards. Norvale departed this life Wednesday, January 27, 2021, after an extended illness. As the eldest of eight children, family meant everything to him. His parents instilled values of faith, love, discipline and many more in him early on. He always admired his Father’s strong work ethic, and took after him in that respect. The example that his parents set for him is what fueled Norvale’s later success.

Norvale graduated from McKinley High School in 1969, in Canton, Ohio. After graduation, he relocated to the DMV area where he made Maryland his home for over 40 years. He began working at Georgetown University in food service. Then started a career with Metro (WMATA) in 1980, as a Bus Operator. Over the years with WMATA, he advanced from Bus Operator to Training Instructor and Supervisor. Norvale found great joy in his role, and mentored many throughout his 30 years of service. After his tenure, Norvale retired from WMATA in 2010.

Norvale was a fun-loving person, and always the life of a party! He would always crack jokes to make people laugh. So, if you knew him, you would know his favorite saying “Them Frogs”. He loved to be surrounded by his family and friends. He also loved to dance, watch his westerns, travel, attend the black cowboy rodeo, listen to jazz, and oldies but goodies music; And please let’s not forget that he loved to eat! One of his favorite meals to eat was a juicy steak, loaded potato and salad. He also loved when his daughter Rhonda would make him some fried chicken, potato salad and deviled eggs. All who knew Norvale will undoubtedly remember him for his smile, caring heart and compassion. His legacy will live on with all the great memories he left with each of us.

Norvale’s loving memory will always be cherished by his two daughters Shannon Montgomery (Victorville, CA) and Rhonda Montgomery (District Heights, MD). His son Jermaine Montgomery (Oxon Hill, Md). His granddaughters, Kiara Owens (Victorville, CA), Shauntese Cowan (Hyattsville, MD) and Gabrielle Yusuf-Montgomery (Washington, DC). His grandsons, Eric Cowan (District Heights, MD), DeShawn Montgomery (District Heights, MD) and Kobi Montgomery (Oxon Hill, MD). His great grandchildren, S’Mani, Jalen, Joziah, S’Niyah, Za’Vion, Sevyn, and Nasaiah. His sisters, Stephanie Edwards (Canton, OH.) and Vanessa Edwards (Dumfries, VA.); His brothers; Douglas Edwards (Canton, OH), Dashielle Edwards (Manassas, VA) and Jeffrey Edwards (Canton, Oh). His very loyal and caring partner Jeanie Susa; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Norvale was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers.