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Phillies executive David Montgomery dies after battle with cancer

By George Stockburger |
David Montgomery speaks during the pregame ceremonies on Pat Gillick recognition night (Photo by L Redkoles/Getty Images)
David Montgomery speaks during the pregame ceremonies on Pat Gillick recognition night (Photo by L Redkoles/Getty Images)

One of the most instrumental figures in the history of the Phillies has passed away.

Phillies chairman and former team president David Montgomery passed away Wednesday morning at the age of 72 after a five-year battle with cancer, according to the club.

A Philadelphia native and Penn Charter grad, Montgomery rose from the ticket office to be a general partner and president of his childhood team. He became one of the most instrumental and beloved figures in the history of Phillies baseball after buying the team with Bill Giles in 1981.

Montgomery struck a unique chord with players, and while he wasn’t always in the spotlight the players and alumni were consistently thanking Mr. Montgomery for his hospitality, grace, and generosity.

Montgomery was a key player in transitioning the team from Veteran’s Stadium to Citizens Bank Park and oversaw one of the greatest eras in Philadelphia baseball.

PHILADELPHIA, PA – OCTOBER 02: Ryan Howard #6 of the Philadelphia Phillies and his wife Krystle accepts a hand painted first baseman’s glove from Phillies owner John Middleton, left, and chairman David Montgomery, right during a pre game ceremony in his honor before a game a game against the New York Mets at Citizens Bank Park on October 2, 2016 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA – OCTOBER 02: Ryan Howard #6 of the Philadelphia Phillies and his wife Krystle accepts a hand painted first baseman’s glove from Phillies owner John Middleton, left, and chairman David Montgomery, right during a pre game ceremony in his honor before a game a game against the New York Mets at Citizens Bank Park on October 2, 2016 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /

“David was one of Philadelphia’s most influential business and civic leaders of his generation,” said Phillies managing partner John Middleton. “For 25 years he has been an invaluable business partner and, more importantly, an invaluable friend. He was beloved by everyone at the Phillies. Leigh and I are saddened beyond words at David’s passing and extend our love and sympathy to Lyn, his children, and grandchildren.”

In 2014 Montgomery stepped aside from his role as team president after a jaw bone cancer diagnosis and took on the role as chairman. The team later named their indoor facility in Clearwater, Florida the “David P. Montgomery Baseball Performance Center.”

After decades without an All-Star Game in Philadelphia, the league announced the 2026 All-Star Game would return, making the announcement to ensure Montgomery would know of it before his passing.

You simply can not talk about the 137 years of Phillies baseball and not recognize Mr. Montgomery as one of, if not the, most influential members of the organization.

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When the Phils return home from their road trip on May 13 Montgomery will undoubtedly be honored at the ballpark he helped build.

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