Bossier City, LA – Bossier Parish Community College and the broader Northwest Louisiana business and education community are mourning the passing of Coach Billy Montgomery, a revered educator, legislator, and leader who played a defining role in shaping the region’s academic and civic landscape.
Montgomery passed away at age 87, leaving behind a legacy of service that spanned from the basketball court to the Louisiana State Capitol and well beyond. Over the course of his multi-decade career, Montgomery built a reputation as a tireless advocate for students, educators, and the citizens of Bossier Parish—an influence still deeply felt today.
A Vision for Growth at BPCC
One of Montgomery’s most enduring contributions came during his tenure as State Representative for District 9 (1988–2008), where he championed a $60 million investment to construct the current Bossier Parish Community College campus. That funding—secured after a pivotal conversation with then-Governor Mike Foster—not only transformed the future of BPCC but expanded educational access for thousands of students in Northwest Louisiana.
He also led efforts to secure land for campus parking and infrastructure expansion, further enhancing BPCC’s ability to serve a growing student population. In 2018, the college honored his legacy by naming its gymnasium the Coach Billy Montgomery Gymnasium, a daily reminder of his impact on education and community development.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Coach Billy Montgomery,” said Dr. Rick Bateman, Jr., Chancellor of BPCC. “His leadership helped shape the college we know today, and his enduring legacy is reflected in the countless lives he touched and the strong, vibrant institution he helped build.”
From Champion Coach to State Advocate
Before his time in state government, Montgomery was a championship-winning basketball coach and principal at Haughton High School. He led the Haughton Buccaneers to back-to-back state championships in 1968 and 1969 and was later honored with the naming of the school’s basketball court in his honor.
In 2012, he was inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, receiving the prestigious Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award. His contributions to athletics, including supporting the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) and the state’s horse racing industry, underscored his commitment to both youth development and economic opportunities tied to sports tourism.
A Champion for the Region
Montgomery’s public service extended beyond his legislative career. From 2008 to 2021, he served as legislative liaison for the Bossier Parish Police Jury, continuing to advocate for policies and initiatives that improved quality of life across the parish.
“He always served his district well, but if someone asked for his help, he never asked who their representative was,” said former Louisiana Senate President John Alario. “He would do whatever he could to assist them, no matter where they lived.”
Montgomery also helped attract regional sporting events through his work with the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission, further driving tourism and visibility for Northwest Louisiana.
A Lasting Legacy
From shaping education policy to building regional infrastructure and fostering youth success through athletics, Coach Billy Montgomery’s influence spans generations. His contributions are visible not just in the institutions that bear his name but in the many lives uplifted by his leadership.
As Bossier Parish and the state of Louisiana reflect on his legacy, one thing remains clear: Coach Montgomery was not only a champion on the court and in the Capitol—he was a cornerstone of progress and a trusted voice for his community.