09/25/2026
We will always be grateful for the care Dr.Kathleen Montemayor so lovingly provided to the generations of patients and families at Rivers Edge Pediatrics ♥️.
BELOVED WEST PASCO PEDIATRICIAN
DR. MONTEMAYOR DIES AT 88: Dr. Kathleen Montemayor, a longtime pediatrician who cared for generations of children and families in West Pasco County, died Aug. 30, 2026, at her home in New Port Richey. She was 88.
Born Aug. 26, 1938, in Philadelphia, Montemayor built a life defined by intellect, determination and a deep commitment to medicine and the community she served.
She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Temple University in Philadelphia and also attended Columbia University in New York. She later earned her medical degree from the University of the Philippines, beginning a medical career that would eventually make her a familiar physician to generations of West Pasco families.
Following medical school, Montemayor completed a fellowship at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg. She later moved to New Port Richey, where she opened a private practice in 1982.
For many years, Montemayor served families throughout West Pasco County as a pediatrician, bringing her knowledge and experience to generations of patients. She especially valued being able to use her multilingual abilities to communicate with and help patients and their families, further strengthening her connection to the community.
A member of Mensa, Montemayor approached life with remarkable energy and independence. She was known for her brilliant mind and sharp, clever wit, along with an understated sense of humor that kept those around her smiling.
That same energy extended well beyond medicine. Montemayor was a private pilot and enjoyed painting, scuba diving, sailing and windsurfing, among many other pursuits. Those who knew her described a woman who embraced both discipline and adventure, combining professional dedication with a desire to explore and live life fully.
Earlier this year, Montemayor lost the love of her life, Ernie Montemayor.
She is survived by her three daughters, Valerie Potter, Victoria Melcher and Vivian Grant; five grandchildren, Max, Sydney, Kalani, Caleb and Kelsey, who lovingly referred to their grandparents as “Nanay” and “Tatay”; her younger brother, retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. John Roulston; and her sons-in-law, Tom Potter and Mike Melcher.
Montemayor and her husband were also blessed to have two loving caretakers, Delma Christman and Gene Rose Giambarberee, who, although not related by blood, became an important part of their lives.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Norman and Kathleen Roulston; her brothers, Norman, Bobby and Jimmy; her sister, Geri; and her son-in-law, Charles F. Grant Jr.
Dr. Kathleen Montemayor leaves a lasting presence in both her family and the West Pasco community she served for so many years. She will be remembered as an enduring bright spark whose intelligence, humor, adventurous spirit and devotion to pediatric care made a meaningful difference in the lives of many.
Her memory will remain with those who had the privilege of knowing her and with the generations of families who entrusted their children’s care to her.
MEMORIAL: A memorial gathering will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, at Brewer & Sons Funeral Home, 5228 Trouble Creek Road in New Port Richey.
