Mary Montague. Mary Montague along with husband, Patrick, the late Bishop Desmond Tutu and Nomalizo Tutu. Mary Montague.
A woman who was honoured for her peace-building work in Northern Ireland has passed away, with her family saying she will be remembered for her “selfless and humble” nature. Mary Montague sadly passed away on in the early hours of Friday, September 20, in the Royal Victoria Hospital where she was cared for with warmth and compassion. Mary dedicated her life to peace.
For decades, she acted as a mediator in the Northern Ireland conflict and made a significant contribution to reconciling the communities. The west Belfast woman had also mediated in other areas of crisis throughout the world. In recent years she had been receiving treatment for cancer.
Paying tribute, her family said: “Mary was a devoted wife and loving mother, to her children and scores of foster-children over 20 years. She was fun-loving and generous with a big heart. “For forty years Mary was an impassioned peace activist bringing together disparate and in spite of the risk to her own personal safety.
“She also gave a voice to the many community groups where she worked. “Her quiet, authentic and unassuming approach helped lead to a reduction in violence, making space for dialogue.” With her strong sense of courage and justice she was able to gain the trust of all conflicting parties.
She was asked to act as a go-between with armed groups and the police to reduce the use of viol.