Jim Montman

September 8, 1947 – July 24, 2025

Jim Montman died on July 24, 2025, in Santa Fe, New Mexico at home surrounded by his loved ones. He was 77 years old. He graduated from Highland High School in 1965.

Jim married his best friend Carolyn Wilder on December 27, 1969. They had three children: Lisa Montman, Michelle Talley (m. Kevin), and Barbara Bennett (m. Steve).

Jim earned his Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from New Mexico State University in 1970. He joined the Air Force after college where he flew as an F-106 fighter pilot. After receiving a Master’s in Political Science (International Relations) from Auburn University in 1984, Jim started flying the A-10 and later served as an instructor pilot.

He graduated from the Air War College in 1987 and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces in 1990. Jim spent over 10 years flying the A-10, primarily at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona, where he retired as a full Colonel and Vice Wing Commander. Throughout his 26 years of service, Jim was awarded several military honors, including the Defense Superior Service Medal and the Legion of Merit.

After retiring from the Air Force, Jim moved to Santa Fe and became the Santa Fe Airport Manager in 2000.

Jim was dedicated to his family and will be greatly missed. He will be interred at Santa Fe National Cemetery and accorded full military honors.