What is Robbie Montgomery doing now remains a question on many fans’ minds as the beloved soul food icon continues her remarkable journey at age 85.
In 2026, Miss Robbie is actively working to reopen Sweetie Pie’s through her new venture “Sweetie Pie’s 2nd Act” in North St. Louis, investing nearly $4-7 million in community revitalization projects.
After closing her last restaurant location in September 2022 following her son Tim Norman’s life sentence for murder-for-hire, Montgomery has demonstrated incredible resilience by returning to both her restaurant roots and music career.
She’s also continuing her roller skating passion, expanding her ministry work, and advocating for community development in underserved neighborhoods. Despite personal tragedy and business setbacks, this legendary Ikette-turned-restaurateur proves that age is just a number while pursuing economic resurgence in her hometown.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About Robbie Montgomery
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robbie Marie Montgomery |
| Date of Birth | June 16, 1940 |
| Age in 2026 | 85 years old |
| Birthplace | Columbus, Mississippi |
| Current Residence | St. Louis, Missouri |
| Nationality | American |
| Professions | Singer, Restaurateur, TV Personality, Reality Star |
| Famous As | Original Ikette, Sweetie Pie’s Owner, “Miss Robbie” |
| Net Worth 2026 | Estimated $6-7 million |
| Marital Status | Not publicly disclosed |
| Children | Andre Montgomery (deceased 1995), Tim Norman (imprisoned) |
| Grandchildren | Andre Montgomery Jr. (deceased 2016), others |
| Reality Show | Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s (OWN, 2011-2018) |
| Current Project | Sweetie Pie’s 2nd Act Restaurant |
| Music Album | Miss Robbie’s What They Call Me (2018) |
| Notable Achievement | 2-time NAACP Image Award winner |
| Signature Dish | Fried chicken, peach cobbler, mac and cheese |
Robbie Montgomery’s Current Activities in 2026
As of 2026, Robbie Montgomery is actively preparing to reopen Sweetie Pie’s in a new North St. Louis location. The 85-year-old entrepreneur hasn’t let age or adversity slow her down.
She’s working tirelessly on “Sweetie Pie’s 2nd Act,” scheduled to open at the intersection of Dr. Martin Luther King Drive and Kingshighway Boulevard in the Kingshighway East neighborhood. This ambitious project represents her comeback after closing the last location.
Montgomery is investing between $4-7 million in this venture. The new restaurant will feature a 160-seat dining area, two event spaces, and create approximately 25 jobs for the community.
Sweetie Pie’s 2nd Act: The Comeback
The new Sweetie Pie’s 2nd Act location marks Montgomery’s determination to revive her restaurant legacy. “Coming Soon” signs were spotted on the building in late 2024.
Montgomery’s vision extends beyond just a restaurant. She’s planning an adjacent event space and has secured options on surrounding vacant lots to attract other entrepreneurs.
Her goal is comprehensive neighborhood revitalization. She wants to transform neglected North St. Louis areas into thriving commercial and residential hubs that serve the community.
Community Investment and Ministry
Montgomery received a $1.5 million grant from St. Louis’ $37 million federal pandemic relief fund dedicated to North Side businesses. However, bureaucratic delays have prevented her from receiving the money.
Despite this setback, she remains committed. “I’ll sell chicken on the corner if I have to, but I’m gonna make this work!” Montgomery stated in a recent interview.
At 76 (referring to when she started the project in 2020), Montgomery expanded her ministry work. She focuses on helping displaced people and those facing catastrophic situations through faith-based community outreach.
Return to Music
Montgomery has returned to her musical roots after decades focused on restaurants. In 2024, she released new music including the track “Boss Lady,” emphasizing perseverance and never giving up.
Her 2018 album “Miss Robbie’s What They Call Me” was her first release in 40 years. The album blends soul, blues, and country music reflecting her diverse musical background.
She continues performing at select events and community gatherings. Music remains her first love, even as she pursues restaurant ventures.
Roller Skating Passion
Montgomery remains an avid roller skating enthusiast. Her Instagram bio proudly lists “Roller Skating Enthusiast” among her identities.
She uses roller skating as both exercise and joy. This lifelong passion keeps her active and energetic despite being 85 years old.
Her commitment to physical activity through skating contributes to her remarkable vitality. She often encourages others to find activities that bring them happiness and health.
Robbie Montgomery’s Age and Health in 2026
Born on June 16, 1940, Robbie Montgomery is 85 years old in 2026. She continues defying expectations about what’s possible in your eighties.
Her health journey includes overcoming significant challenges. In her thirties, her lung collapsed, ending her professional singing career and forcing her return to St. Louis.
Despite past health issues, she maintains an active lifestyle. Her roller skating, community work, and restaurant planning demonstrate remarkable energy for her age.
Background: From Ikette to Restaurant Queen
Montgomery’s journey from backup singer to restaurant mogul is truly American dream material. She grew up in the Pruitt-Igoe housing projects in St. Louis after moving from Mississippi at age six.
As the oldest of nine siblings, she learned cooking from her mother Ora Gray. These family recipes would later become the foundation of Sweetie Pie’s success.
She began singing professionally at 18 after graduating from Pruitt High School. Her talent quickly led to opportunities with major artists.
Career as an Original Ikette
Montgomery became one of the original Ikettes, the backing group for the Ike & Tina Turner Revue in the 1960s. She sang on the breakthrough hit “A Fool in Love” in 1959.
She toured extensively with Ike & Tina Turner, experiencing the harsh realities of segregation. The group couldn’t eat in most restaurants, so Montgomery cooked for everyone.
After her time with the Turners, she joined the Mirettes and became a “Night Tripper” for Dr. John. Her versatility made her sought-after in the music industry.
Backing Vocals for Legends
From 1968 to 1988, Montgomery toured the world as a backing vocalist. She performed with Stevie Wonder, Barbra Streisand, the Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Joe Cocker, James Brown, and The Supremes.
She worked with B.B. King and countless other legendary artists. Her voice contributed to some of the most iconic recordings of the 1970s and 1980s.
This twenty-year touring career gave her invaluable experience and stories. She witnessed music history firsthand while developing her own artistic voice.
Lung Collapse and Career Change
Montgomery’s singing career ended abruptly when her lung collapsed. This devastating setback forced her to leave California and return to St. Louis.
She needed a new career path and became a dialysis technician. This healthcare work required putting on a white coat instead of stage costumes.
While working as a technician, she dreamed of a different future. Her mother’s soul food recipes and her own cooking skills planted the seeds for Sweetie Pie’s.
The Birth of Sweetie Pie’s Empire
In 1996, Montgomery opened the first Sweetie Pie’s in Dellwood, Missouri. She used her mother’s traditional soul food recipes and her own cooking experience from touring days.
The restaurant specialized in Southern comfort food including fried chicken, mac and cheese, candied yams, collard greens, and peach cobbler. Everything was made from scratch with love.
Montgomery’s business philosophy included hiring ex-offenders looking for second chances. This compassionate approach earned recognition from the Missouri Department of Corrections in 2010.
Restaurant Expansion
Sweetie Pie’s success led to expansion. A location opened in The Grove neighborhood, followed by Sweetie Pie’s Upper Crust in the Grand Center Arts District on Delmar Boulevard.
Her son Tim Norman opened locations under the name “TJ’s Sweetie Pie’s” in attempts to franchise the concept. Locations appeared in North Hollywood, Inglewood, and other areas.
In January 2020, a Sweetie Pie’s opened in Jackson, Mississippi, with Montgomery and blues legend Bobby Rush performing at the grand opening. This expansion represented her return to her birthplace state.
Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s Reality Show
The Oprah Winfrey Network launched “Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s” on October 15, 2011. The reality series followed Montgomery and her family running the soul food restaurants.
The show became OWN’s highest-rated series and ran for nine seasons until 2018. It won NAACP Image Awards for Best Reality Series in both 2013 and 2016.
The show documented family dynamics, business challenges, and community connections. Viewers fell in love with Miss Robbie’s warmth, wisdom, and no-nonsense management style.
Integration Through Food
Sweetie Pie’s accomplished what Montgomery calls integration through soul food. The restaurants attracted diverse customers across racial and economic lines.
Locations in The Grove and Grand Center contributed to neighborhood revitalization. Her pioneering presence drew thousands of locals and tourists to previously struggling areas.
St. Louis Magazine credited her restaurant with doing “more to integrate the city than most politicians.” This recognition highlighted her broader community impact beyond just business success.
Family Tragedy and Legal Troubles
Montgomery’s life took a devastating turn with her grandson’s murder in 2016. Andre Montgomery Jr., age 21, was shot to death near Fairground Park in St. Louis.
The murder remained unsolved for four years. The truth, when revealed, shattered the Montgomery family and shocked fans of the reality show.
In August 2020, Montgomery’s son James Timothy Norman was arrested and charged with orchestrating his nephew’s murder-for-hire for insurance money.
Tim Norman’s Murder-for-Hire Conviction
Norman was the sole beneficiary of a $450,000 life insurance policy on Andre Jr. Federal prosecutors alleged he recruited accomplices to execute the murder plot.
Memphis exotic dancer Terica Ellis and triggerman Travell Anthony Hill were among the co-conspirators. All eventually pleaded guilty or were convicted.
Norman’s trial began September 6, 2022. After 17 hours of jury deliberation, he was found guilty on September 16, 2022.
Life Sentence and Family Response
On March 2, 2023, Norman was sentenced to life in prison without parole. Judge John A. Ross praised investigators’ “incredible effort” in solving what could have been another unsolved killing.
Montgomery wrote a letter requesting leniency for her son. “I don’t know whether Tim did what he was accused and convicted of,” she wrote. “He is still the baby that I bore, and I love him as every mother involved loves their child.”
The conviction and sentence devastated Montgomery. However, she has shown remarkable resilience in moving forward with her life and business dreams.
Impact on Sweetie Pie’s Business
The last Missouri Sweetie Pie’s location, Upper Crust in Grand Center, closed in September 2022 shortly after Norman’s conviction. Montgomery announced the closure with gratitude for years of customer support.
The Jackson, Mississippi location closed in March 2023 due to “unforeseen circumstances.” This left no operating Sweetie Pie’s restaurants anywhere.
The scandal effectively ended the restaurant empire Montgomery had built over 26 years. However, her determination to rebuild demonstrates her unbreakable spirit.
Robbie Montgomery’s Net Worth in 2026
Celebrity Net Worth estimates Robbie Montgomery’s net worth at approximately $6 million in 2026. Some sources suggest it could reach $7 million.
Her wealth accumulated through multiple revenue streams. Restaurant operations, reality TV earnings, music royalties, and book sales all contributed.
The closure of all Sweetie Pie’s locations likely impacted her net worth. However, new restaurant investments and continued residual income maintain substantial wealth.
Income Sources
Montgomery’s restaurant empire generated significant revenue during its peak. Multiple locations across different states brought in millions annually.
“Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s” ran for nine seasons on OWN. Reality TV contracts typically pay stars substantial amounts, especially for successful shows.
Her 2015 cookbook “Sweetie Pie’s Cookbook: Soulful Southern Recipes, from My Family to Yours” provided additional income. Music royalties from her decades-long singing career continue generating passive income.
Asset Holdings
Montgomery owns property in St. Louis. Her real estate holdings include both residential and commercial properties.
She’s investing $4-7 million into the new Sweetie Pie’s 2nd Act location. This represents significant capital commitment at age 85.
Her assets also include intellectual property rights to the Sweetie Pie’s brand, recipes, and previous media appearances. These provide ongoing value.
Overcoming Adversity and Moving Forward
Montgomery’s ability to overcome adversity defines her character. From a collapsed lung ending her singing career to her grandson’s murder and son’s conviction, she’s faced unimaginable pain.
Each setback could have broken her spirit. Instead, she’s used challenges as fuel for reinvention and community service.
Her faith plays a central role in her resilience. She frequently references God’s guidance and purpose in her journey.
Life Philosophy
Montgomery’s philosophy emphasizes perseverance, patience, and prayer. She believes these three elements carry people through any challenge.
“Patience and perseverance is the way,” she teaches. Her life demonstrates this principle through decades of ups and downs.
She tells young people never to give up on their dreams. Even at 85, she’s pursuing new dreams while honoring past achievements.
Community Leadership
Montgomery sees herself as a community leader responsible for economic development. Her restaurant locations have consistently revitalized struggling neighborhoods.
She advocates for North St. Louis, an area often overlooked by investors and politicians. Her commitment to these communities stems from her own Pruitt-Igoe upbringing.
“These are my stomping grounds; this is where I lived and I’m gonna do whatever I have to do,” Montgomery states. This dedication inspires others to invest in forgotten areas.
Second Chances Mission
Hiring ex-offenders has always been central to Montgomery’s business model. She believes everyone deserves second chances and opportunities for redemption.
This mission comes from personal understanding of struggle and redemption. Her own journey from housing projects to international stages taught her to never judge people’s potential.
The Missouri Department of Corrections honored her in 2010 for willingness to help ex-offenders reintegrate into society. This recognition validated her compassionate approach to business.
Montgomery’s Legacy and Cultural Impact
Robbie Montgomery’s legacy extends far beyond restaurants and reality TV. She represents Black entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment, and community reinvestment.
As an original Ikette, she contributed to music history. Ike & Tina Turner’s revue broke racial barriers and influenced generations of performers.
Her transition from entertainment to business ownership inspired others. She proved that skills from one career can transfer to entirely different fields.
Breaking Barriers
Montgomery built a successful restaurant empire as a Black woman in a competitive industry. She opened restaurants in neighborhoods where she once couldn’t eat due to segregation.
Her proudest moment was opening Upper Crust in Grand Center. “It’s my own building and in a neighborhood where, as a young girl, I wasn’t even allowed to eat in restaurants due to my race. Now, I am an owner and living my dream.”
This achievement represents full-circle justice and progress. She transformed personal pain from discrimination into motivation for success.
Cultural Ambassador
The St. Louis Kings of Rhythm, which included Montgomery, were appointed ambassadors for the City of St. Louis by Mayor Vincent Schoemehl in the 1980s.
Her reality show brought national attention to St. Louis soul food and culture. Millions of viewers discovered the city’s rich culinary traditions through her restaurants.
She’s featured in the book “The People’s Place: Soul Food Restaurants and Reminiscences from the Civil Rights Era to Today” (2015). This documentation preserves her contributions to food culture history.
Inspiring Generations
Young Black entrepreneurs cite Montgomery as inspiration. She demonstrated that background doesn’t determine destiny.
Her journey from poverty to prosperity resonates with people facing obstacles. She proves that reinvention is possible at any age.
At 85, she continues inspiring by refusing to retire or give up. Her ongoing work ethic challenges stereotypes about aging.
Personal Life and Relationships
Montgomery keeps much of her personal life private. She’s not married currently and doesn’t publicly discuss romantic relationships.
She lives in St. Louis with friends or alone, depending on the time period. Her focus remains primarily on business, community, and family.
Despite her son’s imprisonment and grandson’s death, she maintains family connections. She visits Tim Norman in prison and stays connected with other family members.
Relationship with Ike Turner
Montgomery has complicated feelings about Ike Turner. She initially thought he was mean and demanding during their touring days.
After running her own business, she gained appreciation for his management style. “Back then we all thought he was mean. You had to rehearse. He had his rules. You couldn’t have runs in your stockings. But now that I am running a business I know exactly where he was coming from.”
Before Turner died in 2007, he visited Sweetie Pie’s and tipped Montgomery fifty dollars. This visit represented reconciliation and mutual respect.
Faith and Spirituality
Montgomery’s Christian faith anchors her life. She grew up Baptist but later became Methodist.
She frequently references God’s plans and purpose in interviews. Her ministry work focuses on sharing God’s love with displaced and struggling people.
Prayer answers everything, according to Montgomery. This spiritual foundation has sustained her through unimaginable grief and challenges.
Montgomery’s Impact on St. Louis
Montgomery’s impact on St. Louis extends beyond restaurant economics. She’s a cultural icon who puts her money where her heart is.
Her investments consistently target underserved neighborhoods. Rather than suburban expansion, she chooses urban cores needing revitalization.
She inspired other entrepreneurs to invest in North St. Louis. Her willingness to take risks in neglected areas creates ripple effects.
Economic Development
Each Sweetie Pie’s location created jobs, attracted customers, and increased property values. The Grove and Grand Center transformations partly credit her pioneering presence.
Her new $4-7 million investment in North St. Louis will create approximately 25 jobs. Additional commercial development on surrounding lots could multiply this economic impact.
Montgomery secured options on vacant lots near the new restaurant. She’s recruiting other business owners to join the revitalization effort.
Neighborhood Transformation
Montgomery witnessed North St. Louis’ decline from her youth. She remembers when Martin Luther King Avenue (formerly Easton) had thriving businesses from Jefferson to Wellston Loop.
“I use to have a little shoe shine box business ld walk up and down Easton shining shoes did pretty good to,” one community member reminisced. Montgomery aims to restore that vibrancy.
Her vision includes mixed-use development with commercial and residential spaces. This comprehensive approach addresses multiple community needs simultaneously.
Current Challenges and Future Plans
Montgomery faces bureaucratic challenges securing her $1.5 million grant. The federal pandemic relief program is under scrutiny, delaying disbursements.
She attributes delays to “politics and race.” Despite frustration, she’s moving forward with private investment and determination.
Her age could be seen as a limitation, but Montgomery views it as irrelevant. “Age is nothing but a number,” she declares.
Grant Controversy
The St. Louis $37 million federal pandemic relief fund dedicated to North Side businesses created controversy. Some recipients face questions about eligibility and use of funds.
Montgomery qualified for $1.5 million but hasn’t received payment. This represents a significant portion of her planned investment.
She’s proceeding despite the uncertainty. Her commitment doesn’t depend on government support, though it would certainly help.
Opening Timeline
No confirmed opening date exists for Sweetie Pie’s 2nd Act as of early 2026. Montgomery shared via text that she’s “working hard to make it happen.”
Construction and licensing processes take time, especially for restaurant openings. The event space adds complexity to the project timeline.
Fans eagerly await the reopening announcement. Social media buzz suggests strong community support and pent-up demand.
Long-Term Vision
Beyond the restaurant, Montgomery envisions comprehensive neighborhood transformation. She wants to attract grocery stores, retail shops, and other essential businesses.
Her goal includes creating an economic hub that serves local residents. This would reduce food deserts and provide convenient shopping.
She’s also committed to continuing her ministry work. Helping displaced people and those facing catastrophes remains a priority alongside business ventures.
Montgomery’s Advice and Wisdom
Montgomery frequently shares life lessons learned from her extraordinary journey. Her wisdom comes from decades of experience in multiple industries.
She emphasizes the importance of hard work and persistence. Success never came easily; it required years of effort and sacrifice.
Her faith-based advice centers on trusting God’s timing and purpose. She believes everyone has a divine destiny if they stay faithful.
On Following Dreams
“Never give up on your dreams” is Montgomery’s consistent message to young people. She achieved success in two completely different careers by refusing to quit.
Her lung collapse could have ended everything. Instead, she reinvented herself and created an even bigger impact through restaurants.
She encourages people to adapt when circumstances change. Flexibility and resilience matter more than rigid plans.
On Business Success
Montgomery credits her restaurant success to authentic recipes and genuine care for customers. She never compromised on quality or hospitality.
Hiring ex-offenders required trusting people others wrote off. This compassionate approach created loyal employees and positive community impact.
She learned management discipline from Ike Turner. Running a successful business requires rules, standards, and accountability.
On Overcoming Adversity
Montgomery’s response to tragedy demonstrates her character. Despite losing her grandson and seeing her son imprisoned, she continues moving forward.
“This is not the end of your story it’s only the beginning in the end we WIN,” she writes. This perspective transforms victims into victors.
She encourages people to “wait on the Lord” during difficult times. Patience and faith carry people through seasons they cannot understand.
Social Media Presence and Public Engagement
Montgomery maintains an active Instagram presence @msrobbiesweetiepies with over 156,000 followers. She posts updates about her projects, inspirational messages, and personal moments.
Her bio describes her as “TV Personality•Soul Singer•Soul Food Restaurateur•Roller Skating Enthusiast.” This captures her multifaceted identity.
Business inquiries go through her representative @kwasikwa1. This professional management helps her navigate opportunities and partnerships.
Fan Engagement
Montgomery responds to fans who share memories of eating at Sweetie Pie’s. These interactions show her genuine appreciation for customer support.
She receives encouragement from people inspired by her resilience. Comments frequently praise her determination to rebuild despite setbacks.
Former employees express gratitude for opportunities she provided. Many credit her with giving them chances when others wouldn’t.
Public Appearances
Montgomery makes select public appearances at community events and fundraisers. She uses her platform to advocate for causes she believes in.
She appeared on Fox 5 Atlanta in February 2024 discussing her new music and never giving up. These interviews keep her in public consciousness.
She’s performed at grand openings and special events. Music remains her passion even as restaurant work dominates her schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Robbie Montgomery doing now in 2026?
Robbie Montgomery is actively preparing to reopen Sweetie Pie’s through her new venture “Sweetie Pie’s 2nd Act” in North St. Louis, investing $4-7 million. She’s also continuing her music career, ministry work, roller skating, and community development projects.
How old is Robbie Montgomery in 2026?
Robbie Montgomery is 85 years old in 2026, born on June 16, 1940. Despite her age, she remains incredibly active with restaurant planning, community investment, and advocacy work.
What is Robbie Montgomery’s net worth?
Robbie Montgomery’s net worth is estimated at $6-7 million in 2026. Her wealth comes from restaurants, reality TV earnings, music royalties, book sales, and property holdings.
Is Sweetie Pie’s still open?
As of early 2026, no Sweetie Pie’s locations are currently operating. All restaurants closed between 2016-2023. However, “Sweetie Pie’s 2nd Act” is scheduled to open in North St. Louis, though no confirmed date has been announced.
What happened to Robbie Montgomery’s son Tim Norman?
Tim Norman was convicted of orchestrating a murder-for-hire plot that killed his nephew Andre Montgomery Jr. in 2016. He was found guilty in September 2022 and sentenced to life in prison on March 2, 2023.
Was Robbie Montgomery really an Ikette?
Yes, Robbie Montgomery was one of the original Ikettes, the backing group for Ike & Tina Turner in the 1960s. She sang on their hit “A Fool in Love” and toured extensively before becoming a backup vocalist for other legendary artists.
What caused Robbie Montgomery to stop singing?
Robbie Montgomery’s lung collapsed in the 1980s, forcing her to end her professional singing career. She returned to St. Louis, became a dialysis technician, and eventually opened Sweetie Pie’s restaurant using her mother’s recipes.
Did Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s win any awards?
Yes, “Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s” won the NAACP Image Award for Best Reality Series in both 2013 and 2016. It was OWN’s highest-rated series during its nine-season run from 2011-2018.
Where will the new Sweetie Pie’s location be?
The new “Sweetie Pie’s 2nd Act” will be located at the intersection of Dr. Martin Luther King Drive and Kingshighway Boulevard in the Kingshighway East neighborhood of North St. Louis, featuring a 160-seat dining area and event spaces.
Is Robbie Montgomery married?
Robbie Montgomery’s current marital status is not publicly disclosed. She keeps her personal romantic relationships private, focusing publicly on her business ventures, family, and community work.
Conclusion
What is Robbie Montgomery doing now in 2026 encompasses far more than simply planning a restaurant reopening—it represents a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and community commitment from an 85-year-old icon who refuses to let age, tragedy, or setback define her final chapters.
From her origins as an original Ikette singing backup for Ike & Tina Turner through her transformation into a beloved restaurateur and reality TV star, Montgomery has repeatedly demonstrated that obstacles are merely opportunities for reinvention.
Her current $4-7 million investment in Sweetie Pie’s 2nd Act in North St. Louis, combined with adjacent event spaces and broader community development initiatives, proves that her vision extends beyond personal success to comprehensive neighborhood revitalization in areas that desperately need economic hope and opportunity.