Markeith Montgomery

2025 Inductee

The Ridgeland High School Athletic Hall of Fame proudly enshrines Markeith “Butter” Montgomery, a standout member of the Class of 2018. Montgomery’s remarkable four-year career saw him not only letter in football, basketball, and track each year, but also achieve extraordinary accolades on the gridiron.

A four-year starter at both defensive back and slot back, Montgomery was a pivotal force for the Panthers. His senior season culminated in an impressive 11-1 record, the team's second consecutive Class 4A Region-6 title, and a trip to the second round of the state playoffs. That year, he showcased his versatility by rushing for 1,300 yards and 18 touchdowns on 104 carries, while also adding 128 receiving yards and a touchdown on five catches. His exceptional performance earned him recognition as the Class 4A Region 6 Player of the Year and the Walker County Player of the Year, as voted by the coaches.

His junior campaign was equally impactful. Defensively, he recorded 84 tackles, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and eight pass breakups. Offensively, he rushed for 722 yards and 10 touchdowns on 77 carries. This outstanding season garnered him First Team Class 4A All-State honors from the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Georgia Sports Writers Association, and RecruitGeorgia.com. He was further distinguished as the Class 4A Defensive Player of the Year by the Georgia Sportswriters Association and the Class 4A Region 6 Defensive Player of the Year and Co-Player of the Year by the coaches.

As a sophomore, Montgomery amassed 97 tackles, six pass breakups, four interceptions, five forced fumbles, and four fumble recoveries, while also contributing five touchdowns and 258 all-purpose yards. His stellar play earned him Class 4A All-State recognition from the Atlanta Journal Constitution and the Georgia Sportswriters Association, along with Walker County Defensive Player of the Year honors and a spot on the coaches' Class 4A Region 6 Team. Even as a freshman, his talent was evident, earning him a place on the Class 4A Region 6 second team.

Beyond football, Montgomery’s athleticism shone brightly in basketball and track. He was a four-year competitor in both sports, achieving remarkable success in track as a two-time state finalist in the high jump, boasting a personal best of 6’4”.  Markeith was also the 2018 Vonn Bell Award winner.  

Continuing his athletic pursuits at Kennesaw State University, Montgomery left an indelible mark by becoming the Kennesaw State University career interception leader and contributing to two conference championship teams. Montgomery was named all-Big South Conference Second Team as a Sophomore.  Now, his journey has brought him back to Walker County, where he serves as an educator and coach for Ridgeland High School, inspiring a new generation of Panthers.

Markeith Montgomery’s exceptional achievements across multiple sports, his leadership, and his enduring connection to Ridgeland High School make him a truly deserving inductee into the Athletic Hall of Fame. His legacy of excellence will continue to inspire Panthers for years to come.