IN MEMORIAM

Charles "Buddy" Freeman II
July 18, 1984 - September 29, 2024

Lieutenant of Montgomery Fire Department

Charles "Buddy" Freeman II, born July 18, 1984, passed away on the afternoon of September 29, 2024, at the age of 40. Buddy lived a life of selfness service, serving as a Corporal for the United States Marine Corp and later as a Lieutenant for Montgomery Fire Department. As, a Marine, Buddy proved his tenacity and dedication to his country over his 6 years of service. While on active duty, beginning in 2003, Buddy was deployed to Cuba, Japan, and Iraq twice to protect our freedoms and did so with the utmost pride. While there is no such thing as a former Marine, Buddy did transition away from the military and into the fire service. His decision was greatly influenced by his stepfather Butch Hayes. He began his career at Montgomery Fire Department in October of 2010 and served faithfully until his passing in September of 2024. Buddy was a quick study, and his leadership skills did not go unnoticed. He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in April of 2013. During his years as on officer for MFD, Buddy trained and mentored countless numbers of young firefighters. He could be described as a firefighter's officer. He always looked out for his guys and was not afraid to speak his mind. Buddy is the definition of a strong willed individual. It can be said without question that the actions Buddy took throughout his life and the courageous sacrifices he made contributed to countless lives saved. His impact and legacy will forever be remembered. Buddy loved his career and the guys at the station, but what he loved most was his family. Buddy and his wife April were high school sweethearts, meeting at a young age of 16 and were married on April 22, 2005. They would go on to have two beautiful children Payton and Porter. Life with Buddy was always an adventure, and he cherished time with his family spent camping, mudding, kayaking and most recently sailing. Charles "Buddy" Freeman was an incredible man, son, brother, husband and father. His courage and strength were unmatche and will not be forgotten. Buddy was preceded in death by Grandmother Rosemary Hebbler, Grandparents Mary Lou and Emil (Bud) Freeman, and Grandparents Mary and Bo Hayes. He is survived by his wife April Sue Freeman and two children Payton and Porter Freeman, Parents Sandra and Butch Hayes, his Brother Cody Howard, and Brother-in-law Dallas Howard, Grandfather George (Buck) Hebble, Uncle Rusty Hebbler, Aunt and Uncle Lori and Dave Wentworth, and Cousins. 

Grant Neil Cherry
July 20, 1998 - February 9, 2023

Firefighter of Montgomery Fire Department

Grant Neil Cherry, born July 20, 1998, unexpectedly passed away on the afternoon of February 9th, 2023, at the age of 24 in his hometown of Montgomery, Texas. Grant found his passion at a young age serving as a firefighter in the Montgomery Fire Department. He took his responsibility to protect the people in his town very seriously. Despite experiencing many sleepless nights and serving many strangers during their most traumatic moments, Grant always made an effort to work as many shifts and help as many people as he could. In his three years of service, Grant helped more people and contributed to saving more lives than most people would be able to in a lifetime. However, you would never know that if you didn't witness it firsthand; Grant was the strong silent type, and he had a habit of letting his actions speak louder than his words. He was named Most Outstanding Cadet during his fire academy, and he received th awards 100 Club Firefighter of the Year (2020), 100 Club Rookie of the Year (2021), and the Montgomery Fire Department Officer's Choice Award (2020), Commissioner's Special Act Award (2020). He received the latter three awards for helping to save a victim from a house fire. The only thing that Grant loved more than his career in the fire service was his mother, Jane Lindsay Cherry. He demonstrated this by sacrificing much of his time, energy, and plans to make sure that she was taken care of. At a time when Grant was developing a bright career as a ship captain, he abandoned that future so that he could come home to care and provide for his mother who needed her son. And instead of just moving back in with her, he decided to also pursue another difficult career as a firefighter so that he could help others as well. Grant was the epitome of "quiet strength", and you did not have to know him long to understand that about him. He was deeply loved, deeply respected, and he will be deeply missed. He is survived by his mother Jane Lindsay Cherry, his father Brandt Camron Cherry, brothers Brandon William Cherry (wife Riley) and Camron Maxwell Cherry, and grandparents Neil and Joyce Fernie, William Cherry, and Katrina Rogers.

William (Bill) Posey Parsons 
November 25, 1949 - December 23, 2022

EMT Instructor to many of our Firefighters

Born November 25th, 1949 in San Antonio, Texas and raised in the Houston West University area, Bill attended Catholic school and graduated from Marion High School in 1968. He later graduated from St. Thomas University with a Bachelors of Science in Economics in 1972. He then started working in the security department at Astroworld and a co-worker nicknamed him “The Reverend Parsons” which was later shortened to “Rev.” During the summer of 1974, he met the love of his life, Kim, who was working in guest relations at Astroworld. With Kim in Louisiana and Bill in Houston, their relationship quickly led to a May wedding in 1976. Bill moved to Lafayette and started working in the oil industry while Kim finished her last year of nursing school. A job transfer brought them back to Houston in 1978. While working in the oil industry, he joined the Cy Fair Volunteer Fire Department and discovered his love for emergency medicine. After much determination, continuing his career, raising a family and volunteering at the fire department, he achieved his paramedic certification. In 1986, he pursued paramedicine full time in Montgomery County. After commuting from Cypress to Conroe for 7 years, the Parsons packed up and moved to Montgomery, Texas where he enjoyed the rest of his life. He was employed by Montgomery County Hospital District for 36 years where co-workers became his EMS family. His EMS background led him to work for several companies which provided medical care at major concerts and local events. Kim even enjoyed “working” these events with Bill including Willie’s 4th of July picnic. Bill traveled to many countries on overseas medical flights transporting patients. After reflecting on his last month alive, Kim fully understood the indescribable connection and bond the MCHD family has. The Parsons family is truly overwhelmed by the love and support they continue to show. Bill was fulfilled by giving back when he started teaching EMT and paramedic classes early in his career. After 36 years working in the field, he retired in 2009 and continued teaching classes. Many of his students went on to impact the communities they worked in and will forever remember his “war” stories related to his experiences as a paramedic.

Montgomery Fire Department was honored to know Bill. He taught many of our firefighters in their EMT class and enjoyed his coffee - story visits when he stopped by the station. 

Lonnie Richard Clover
March 3, 1944 - September 3, 2021

Montgomery County ESD#2 Commissioner

Lonnie peacefully passed away at his home in Montgomery, Texas, Friday, September 3, 2021 with his daughters by his side. Lonnie was born March 3, 1944 in Lima, Ohio. With a degree in architecture from the University of Houston, he forged a successful career running his own company for many years. Growing up his two daughters remember the countless hours he spent in his home office designing hundreds of structures from homes to commercial buildings including the Montgomery City Hall on Old Plantersville Road. Him and his wife Sonya, were passionate about the city of Montgomery and preserving its historic charm. In 1996 when they purchased the yellow Victorian house on Caroline Street they wasted no time turning it into a home they were so proud of. He enjoyed giving his time to many different interests. He and his wife loved being a part of the community and were proud to open their historic home, Social Circle, for tours and a venue for events. They served as members of the Montgomery Historical Society, the Montgomery Historic Business Association and the Patrons of Cedar Brake Park. He was most proud of his time serving on the Emergency Services District No. 2 Board as a Commissioner. Many of us here at Montgomery Fire Department, will always remember him for his colorful suspenders. 

George Martin Herzog, Jr.
June 14, 1952 - February 3, 2021

Montgomery Fire Department Volunteer

George Martin Herzog, Jr., 68, of Dobbin, was at home on the farm and surrounded by his family when God took him home on February 3, 2021. George was a volunteer with Montgomery Fire Department from 1997 to 2003, where he joined his sons in volunteering. 

Waylon Dale May
June 16, 2005 - May 5, 2019

Honorary Member of Montgomery Fire Department

We met Waylon during our Pink Campaign in October 2017, were we paid a visit to his house in Montgomery. Instantly, we fell in love with his infectious smile. Waylon “Tractor” May passed away May 5, 2019 surrounded by his family. Waylon May was born to Ronnie and Cindy May, June 16, 2005 in Tomball, TX. Waylon has resided in Montgomery his entire life. Waylon passed away from a battle with metastatic osteosarcoma. Waylon was born with a fishing rod in his hand. His love for hunting and fishing began at an early age along with his love for singing in his school choir and football at age 6. In little league football he earned the name “Tractor” by plowing through his opponents. Waylon didn’t know a stranger and could make anyone laugh with his wittiness. Waylon dreamed of working along side one of his brothers one day and having a family of his own with his fur babies. He was an old soul and knowledgeable beyond his years, but with a heart of a child. Waylon is survived by his Father, Ronnie May; Mother, Cindy May; Brother and Sister-in-law, Dillon Dowdell and Rylei Williamson; Brother, Wes May; Sister, Kim Bailey; Grandparents, James and Donna Dowdell. His Uncles: Troy May, Jerry Stover, Pete Stover, George May, Wayne King, and Lucky Lawson. His Aunts: Angela May, Stephanie Stover, Rhonda Lawson, Rachel May, Margo Wiegand, and Laurie May. Cousins: Dallas May, Deborah Yount, Pat Yount, Hannah Yount, Taylor Yount, Max Stover, Elisabeth Stover, Sarah May, Heather May, Krystal May, Ashley Sylve, Justin Lawson, Levi Lawson, Joe Stover, Jeffery Stover and Emily Stover. God Parents John Herron and Tracy Herron; God Grandmother, “Granny”; and many, many close friends. Waylon is preceded in death by grandparents, Jeffery “Paw Paw Smokey” Stover, Donald May, and Wanda May; and Uncle John Wiegand.

Montgomery Fire Department had the honor of attending the Celebration of Life for Waylon, where they presented his Mom, Cindy, an honorary helmet making Waylon a forever member of the the Montgomery Fire Department. 

Joel S. Stephens
November 23, 1959 - December 20, 2018

Part Time Firefighter of Montgomery Fire Department

Joel was a part time firefighter and family member of Montgomery Fire Department. He was not only a firefighter, he was also an incredible teacher. He was always teaching, instructing and mentoring everyone he met. He had a way about him, he would lead you to make the right decision, and to not feel intimidated if you did not know the answer. He was passionate about his profession and he was a true professional in every sense. (MFD 2005-2012)

Henry Lee Burton, Sr.
March 11, 1930 - June 23, 2018

Montgomery County ESD#2 Commissioner

Henry Lee Burton, Sr., 88, of Montgomery, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2018. He was born March 11, 1930, in Galveston, TX to Henry and Margarite Burton. After graduating from Milby High School in 1948, Henry attended Rice University and married his high school sweetheart, Miriam Hoffman on September 14, 1951. After graduating from Rice in 1953, he joined the Coast Guard where he served during the Korean War. When he returned to civilian life, he embarked on a successful career in the oil industry, working in Texas and Oklahoma before retiring to the Lake Conroe area in 1982. Henry and Miriam lived in Walden for the last 37 years, where he served in the community by volunteering at the elementary schools; reading to children and assisting with setting up the school libraries. Henry served as a MISD board trustee and also served as an Emergency Service District Commissioner for many years. During that time the Montgomery Fire Department grew and developed three new fire stations, including the main fire station on Highway 105. He was an avid golfer and one of his accomplishments was getting a hole in one at the Walden Golf Course. Both Henry and Miriam supported the Montgomery Girls’ golf team and enjoyed attending their tournaments. They were their grandchildren’s biggest fan in any athletic or scholastic event and you could count on hearing the Burton’s cheering on their team or family member. Henry was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Betty Keith and granddaughter, Katrin Burton. He is survived by his loving wife, Miriam, children Lee Burton, Leonard Burton and wife Stephanie, Linda Willey and husband, Malcolm; grandchildren, Kristin Burton, Jodie Hutchinson, Brandon Daye, Blake Burton, Devin Coupe and Erin Burton; great grandchildren, Emma Fentem, Jaxson Fentem, Bradley Hutchinson, Kullen Burton, Max Hutchinson, Murphy Jo Burton, and Emerson Coupe. He is also survived by his sister, Jeanette Droske and husband Bobbie and aunt, Seggie Robertson along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Emmett J. Pugh
May 6, 1936 - May 5, 2014

Montgomery County ESD#2 Commissioner

Emmett Jerrell Pugh, age 77, left his cherished family to be with his beloved God on Monday, May 05, 2014. He was born on May 06, 1936 in Joaquin, Texas to Emmett S. and Maybelle Jackson Pugh and graduated from Cleveland High School. Emmett went on to graduate for the South Texas Junior College with an Associate of Arts in August of 1969. Then, Emmett continued his education by attending Sam Houston State and graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in August of 1973. Emmett also received his Master of Education in Administration from Texas Southern University in August of 1976. He was also ordained minister. Emmett enjoyed traveling as well as spending time with his family and friends. Emmett retired from Houston Community College System after 30+ years where he made lifelong relationships with many co-workers and students. He also served as Children's Church pastor for Lazybrook Baptist Church for many years. After retirement, Emmett served as a Commissioner for the Montgomery Emergency Service 2 District and as a Deacon to Dacus Baptist Church. Emmett's special interests and hobbies included family and sharing God's word. Some of his favorite times out and about were watching his granddaughters' accomplishments and supporting their endeavors, visiting with friends, and volunteering in his community. Emmett is survived by his wife of 1 1/2 years, Mary Wanda; their sons Shannon Pugh and his wife Carol of Montgomery, Texas and Michael Simpson and his wife Ada of Addison, Texas; his granddaughters Lauren Pugh and Trilby Pugh of Montgomery, Texas; Sister Margie Ferreri of Conroe, Texas and Brother Larry Pugh of St. Louis, Missouri and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Sherry Pugh, mother, Maybelle Jackson,& father, Emmett S. Pugh.

Robert "Bob" Cowan Dayton
August 8, 1921 - March 10, 2011

Longtime Member of Montgomery Fire Department

Robert Cowan Dayton left this life and went to be with his Lord on Thursday, March 10, 2011 after a short illness. Bob was born to Donald C. Dayton and Ruth Hellickson Dayton on August 8, 1921 in Houston. Bob's civil engineering education at Rice was interrupted by a three and a half year enlistment in the United States Marine Corps. Bob was a navigator/bombardier in a B-25 with fifty-six combat missions in the Pacific Theatre for which he was awarded dual distinguished flying crosses and nine air medals in 2008; more than sixty years after his service. He worked for Shell Oil Company starting in summers before his enlistment until 1968. On his retirement from John Chance and Associates in 1983, he and Doris relocated to Walden on Lake Conroe where they joined St. James Episcopal Church, and he remained active until his death. Bob became a firefighter with the Walden Volunteer Fire Department, and worked his way to department chief. He then assisted in the merging of the Walden department into the Montgomery Fire Department. Bob was an avid supporter of the fire service, so much so that a new engine was dedicated in his honor this past fall. He is survived by his children Marsha Thomas and husband Bud, Donna Oppermann and husband Skip; sister-in-law, Janice Bright; five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; and beloved companion Joan Kuhasz. He is preceded in death by his wife of sixty years, Doris, sister Dorothy Dayton Sellingsloh and parents Donald and Ruth Dayton.

History of Bob Dayton's Career with Montgomery: 8/1984 - Started with Walden VFD, 5/1988 - Promoted to Captain, 5/1988 - Promoted to Department Safety Officer, 9/1988 - Promoted to District Chief 52, 12/1988 - Firefighter of the Year, 7/1993 - Promoted to District Chief over Station 52 & 54, 1993 - Department created the Bob Dayton Award in his honor for (that member shows leadership and dedication to the fire department by taking on responsibilities above their daily duties.  They strive to continuously make improvements to better the daily operations within the fire department.) 1993 - Firefighter of the Year, 1993 - 2000 - Commissioner of ESD#2, 1997 - Became member of MFD, when Walden VFD merged, 2005 - Became Honorary Member, 2010 - Engine 54 dedicated to Bob for his service with MFD

David Lynn Francis, Sr.
August 21, 1952 - August 14, 2008

Montgomery County ESD#2 Commissioner

David was born in Houston, Texas on August 21, 1952 and passed away in Montgomery on August 14, 2008. David was in the Texas Air National Guard from 1971 to 1977. He was currently a board member for the Montgomery Co., ESD # 2 Board. David’s hobbies were fishing, water skiing, SCUBA diving and riding Harleys. David was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He always put others before himself whether they were family, friends or acquaintances. He was a respected businessman who owned Lone Star Automotive Repair Shop for 16 years and currently owned 2DM Underground since 1999. David is survived by his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 36 years, Katie Singleton Francis; children, David (Dave) Francis, Jr., and wife Ashley, Matthew Francis and wife Renee, and Rachel Montgomery and husband Chance, all of Montgomery; grandchildren, Kevin Francis, Taylor Francis, Cooper Francis, Tucker Francis, Carson Francis and Jillian Francis all of Montgomery; sister, Judy Bivens and husband Edgar of Meeker, CO., and brother, Jimmy Francis of Montgomery. Also, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends. David is preceded in death by his parents, Winson James and Mary Martha Francis and brother, Douglas (Poncho) Francis.