Richard Calvin Montgomery

Richard Calvin Montgomery, beloved brother, mentor, friend, filmmaker, music industry executive, marketer, storyteller, and proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., passed away on June 29, 2026. He was 69 years old. Richard was born on May 17, 1957, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Calvin and Juliette Montgomery. From an early age, he possessed an extraordinary creative spirit, an infectious curiosity, and an unwavering desire to help others. Those qualities would define every chapter of his life. Richard began his collegiate journey at Hampton Institute (now Hampton University) in 1975 before receiving his B.A. in architectural design from Howard University in 1982 — a distinction he proudly joked that earned him “double HU credits.” Hampton remained central to his identity throughout his life. As a proud Hamptonian and a Spring 1978 initiate of Beta Chi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., he cultivated lifelong friendships and dedicated himself to supporting fellow alumni in their personal and professional endeavors. His career in broadcasting and entertainment began at WHOV-FM at Hampton Institute, in Hampton, Virginia, where he served as an on-air personality from 1976 to 1979 before becoming the station’s General Manager. He later joined WHUR-FM at Howard University, in Washington, D.C., and quickly established himself as a respected voice within the music industry. Richard’s passion for music led him through an extraordinary career that included roles with A&M Records and Venture Records before becoming an independent record promoter and marketing consultant. In 1985, he founded Mediaview Communications, where he served as President and Creative Director. He also served as Director of Artist Development and a member of the Board of Directors for Alchemy Entertainment, helping shape the careers and brands of countless artists and creative professionals. Throughout his career, Richard worked alongside some of the entertainment industry’s most recognizable names. Alongside his Hampton classmate and former Miss Hampton, Sylvia Woody Rose, he co-managed artists and developed innovative marketing strategies that elevated musicians, songwriters, producers, and entertainment executives. He was instrumental in ensuring that behind-the-scenes talent received the recognition they deserved, including helping celebrate songwriter and producer Chris “Deep” Henderson’s achievements and supporting the extraordinary career of Academy Award-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter. As the music industry evolved from records and cassettes to streaming platforms, Richard often reflected fondly on an era when he personally knew the artists whose music filled the airwaves. His stories of attending Grammy Awards, working with recording artists, and witnessing music history firsthand became treasured memories that he generously shared with friends and followers. In 1988, Richard joined the staff of Sisters magazine, a publication of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc., where he served as Art Director. Richard was equally passionate about storytelling through film. As a filmmaker and director, he believed every person and every community had a story worth telling. He wrote and directed the short film Wardrobe Malfunction (2005) and was also known for Only in Your Dreams (2006). Whether producing documentaries, filming charitable events, covering red carpets, or highlighting community leaders, Richard approached every project with professionalism, creativity, and heart. His marketing expertise extended far beyond entertainment. Richard became widely respected throughout Prince George’s County and the Washington metropolitan area for his branding, promotional design, electronic press kits, websites, and multimedia campaigns. He received numerous awards recognizing his marketing and promotional work, including his contributions supporting Senator Angela Alsobrooks during her term as County Executive and Prince George’s County initiatives. He often said that while recognition was gratifying, using his talents to showcase and uplift his community was even more meaningful. Those who knew Richard best remember not simply his accomplishments, but his generosity. Friends often remarked that you rarely needed to ask Rick for help, he simply showed up. Whether filming an event, promoting a friend’s project, offering marketing advice, designing promotional materials, or providing encouragement during life’s important moments, Richard gave freely of his time, talents, and resources. He lovingly helped his sister friends June Grant, Mary Morrison, and Judge Vanessa Gilmore with numerous marketing and design projects that advanced their careers. His life was a living example of altruism. He celebrated the successes of others as enthusiastically as his own and dedicated himself to helping people achieve their dreams. His camera captured countless milestones, but perhaps his greatest gift was making others feel seen, valued, and supported. Richard was also active in numerous professional and civic organizations, including the Black Music Association and the Young Black Programmers Coalition. His distinguished career earned him recognition in Marquis Who’s Who as a noteworthy record producer and consultant. He was also a member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, Inc. Outside of his professional pursuits, Richard loved music, drawing, writing, sports, and remained a devoted Cleveland Browns fan through every season of hope and heartbreak. His wit, warm smile, and unmistakable presence brought joy wherever he went. Richard was also a devoted member of the Unity Church, where his faith and belief in Unity principles shaped his outlook on life. His spirituality was reflected in the compassion, optimism, and kindness he extended to everyone he encountered. Above all else, Richard cherished relationships. Family, fraternity brothers, Hampton classmates, colleagues, godchildren, and lifelong friends all occupied a special place in his heart. He leaves behind a legacy of creativity, service, friendship, and love that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. Richard is survived by his beloved sister, Denise Montgomery Reid; his cherished nieces Cathony (Denzel) and Clennette; his many godchildren; his dear “sister friends”; fraternity brothers; Hampton and Howard classmates; and an extended family of friends whose lives were forever enriched by his generosity, wisdom, and unwavering support. Though his camera has gone still, the stories Richard told—and the countless lives he touched—will continue to speak for generations to come. “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Richard Calvin Montgomery

May 17, 1957 - June 29, 2026

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Richard Calvin Montgomery

May 17, 1957 - June 29, 2026

365 Days of Grief Support

What We Do

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Grief & Healing

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About Us

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