Elizabeth Montalbano

Elizabeth Montalbano, lovingly known as Liz, passed away November 9, 2023. She was a gentle and caring soul, born April 20, 1948 in Crystal City, Texas. She grew up in Carrizo, Texas and graduated from Carrizo Springs High School in 1966. As a child, Liz always had her nose in a book. Her sister describes her as an "Olympic quality reader."

Later in life, working as a meat inspector for the USDA, Liz met a handsome truck driver delivering gas to one of Liz's inspection sites. That handsome gentleman was Tommy Montalbano and on August 22, 1969, they married. Together they owned and operated Tommy's Drive-In for many years. Though the drive-in was an accomplishment to be proud of, Liz's truest joy in life was being a mother to her daughters.

Liz loved family and bringing people together. She hosted many Joiner-Wallace family reunions, gathering generations of love under one roof. The gatherings went hand-in-hand with her talent for cooking. She loved sharing her special recipes ...if she could remember them! In 2010, Liz embarked on a long-awaited trip to Hawaii, accompanied by her brother and sister. This journey was not just a vacation; it was a celebration of life for her own mother who passed away in 2008. Liz carried the memory of her mother in her heart as she created this unforgettable memory with her siblings.

As a devout Catholic, St. Anthony's Church held a special place in Liz's heart. One of her favorite activities was working the cake donation booth at the annual spaghetti dinner. Liz actively served as a member of the St. Anthony Altar Society for many years, serving as president from 1978 to 1990 and again from 1995 to 1997. She also served as secretary of the Brazos Valley Council of Catholic Women, all contributing significantly to the spiritual well-being of those around her.

Liz's love for reading continued throughout her life as she also loved art and crafts of all kinds, most especially scrapbooking. She enjoyed playing Rummikub, Solitaire, and Bingo. She was quite a familiar face at both the Meyer Senior Center and Brazos Senior Center on Bristol Street. Her beauty, kindness, and gentle spirit will be missed, but may it live on within each one of us who had the privilege of being touched by her sweet presence.

In Heaven, Liz reunites with her husband, Tommy Montalbano; parents, Howard Hawkins Harvey and Nora Ruth Harvey; and step-son, Michael Montalbano.

Left on Earth to cherish Liz's legacy are her daughters Laura Blackburn (and husband David) and Lynette Montalbano; step-daughter, Diane Ball (and husband Bobby); grandchildren, Joy Blackburn, Christian Schiller Bell, Marlana Staffield (and husband Chad), Thomas Ball, and Adam Ball; siblings, Pamela Barvosa, Henry Harvey, Mary Ringo, and Robert Harvey; and her loveable pup, Grace.

As we part ways, let us carry Liz's spirit within us, continuing to spread love and kindness just as she did. 

Please visit www.hillierfuneralhome.com to share deepest condolences and expressions of gratitude for Liz and a life well lived.