January 11, 2026, 89, Fremont – Leila Faye Montague, 89, known lovingly as “Faye” or “Nana” passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at Kitty Askins Hospice Center in Goldsboro. Born in Wayne County on March 10, 1936, she was daughter to the late Preston Sauls and Lizzie Johnson Sauls.
Faye was deeply devoted to her family and friends and cherished the time she spent with them. She had a genuine heart for service and was strongly committed to supporting her community, generously volunteering her time with Meals on Wheels and the Kitty Askins Hospice Center, where she found great fulfillment in caring for and encouraging others.
She enjoyed an active social life as a member of the Red Hat Society and was well known for her love of playing cards and her competitive spirit. She found great peace and relaxation at the beach, where she especially delighted in the calming sound of the waves, the warmth of the sun, and the refreshing salt air — moments that brought her comfort and joy.
Faye was a faithful member of Mount Nelson Missionary Baptist Church.
Faye is survived by her brothers, Jay Sauls, Dean Sauls and wife Nancy; her sister-in-law Yvonne Sauls; her children, James “Jimmy” Montague, Jr. and wife Sherry, David Montague, Brenda Yelverton and husband Phil; her grandchildren, Joshua Wilson, Hannah Cape and husband Anthony, Lizzie Yelverton and husband Paul Ikalowych, Alison Montague, Mary Yelverton, Macy Ellis and husband Chris; her great-grandchildren, Hayleigh Cape, Easton Wilson and Greyson Wilson; and several beloved nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James Montague, Sr.; her daughters, Cheryl Whitley and Lisa Wilson; and her brother, Richard “Dickie” Sauls.
The family will receive friends for a time of visitation on Thursday, January, 15, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home. A service to honor Faye’s life will be held in the chapel at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor Jimmy Dale officiating. Interment will conclude at the Sauls Family Cemetery in Fremont.
The family is in the care of Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
