Michael Jay Montague

constant companion, Maude.

Michael was born on May 20, 1961 in Houston, Texas. He grew up in Rockport and graduated from

Rockport High School, earning acclaim in statewide competitions for chorale and piano.

He entered The University of Texas at Austin in September 1979, first majoring in Piano. His bass-

baritone voice and compelling stage presence landed him in the Department of Drama. Graduating with

honors in 1984, he moved to New York City and began a career in theatre and daytime soap operas. His

most notable credits were with the New York Gilbert and Sullivan Society and at the Walnut Street

Theatre in Philadelphia, PA.

Michael completed graduate-level studies in Interior Design and French, respectively, at the Parson’s

School of Design in 1986, and Université Jean Moulin, Lyon, France, in 1998.

Returning to Austin in early 1990s, he embarked on a successful career at UT. He was the curator of the

Historical Textiles and Apparel Collection, taught fashion design and construction in the School of

Human Ecology and went on to work for the School of Natural Sciences and the College of Fine Arts,

eventually becoming the Assistant to the Dean in the College of Fine Arts.

Upon retirement in 2017, Michael devoted himself to travel and the renovation of several homes.

To those who knew him, Michael’s absence leaves a loss, and also loving appreciation. He was a true

Renaissance man who built homes and gardens, repaired and restored cars, designed clothes and

cooked delicious meals. His charisma, talent and warmth, drew people to him.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Margaret, and his brother, Mark. He leaves behind his

husband, Paul Bonin-Rodriguez, as well as many friends and family, including father, Paul Montague,

siblings, Matt Montague and Meredith Montague (Portz), as well as John Portz, Elisa Portz, and Marcos

Portz.

A memorial for Michael will be held in the Great Hall at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

from 1-4 PM on May 23. Donations to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center made in Memory of

Michael Montague will support a memorial oak in his name. For instructions on how to make a

donation, visit tiny.cc/michaelmontague.