</ref> Montgomery often described himself as the group's co-founder, although it was not an official recognition by the group or Kirk. Montgomery died July 28, 2020 at the age of 80 due to coronavirus complications. Turning Point USA memorialized Montgomery for his role in elevating Kirk, and as the "first believer" and "senior advisor" of the organization. Career Montgomery's career was in advertising and real estate. He was also a former restaurateur. Politics In May 2012, Montgomery attended a panel discussion at Benedictine University's "Youth Empowerment Day," and was impressed with a speech by the young Charlie Kirk, who was 18 years old at the time. He described Kirk's speech as “practically Reaganesque”, Private life Montgomery was married, and had a son and a daughter. According to two of his friends, Montgomery died July 28, 2020 at the age of 80 due to coronavirus complications.