Lawrence Monteith Obituary

Lawrence (Larry) Monteith CHARLESTON - Lawrence "Larry" Alexander Monteith was born on January 14, 1960, in Akron, Ohio, the second child of Grace K. (Work) and Alexander H. Monteith. He is survived by his mother, Grace of Tallmadge, his sister, Cynthia Monteith Holzheimer of Lakewood, and his aunt, Susanne E Monteith of Cincinnati, Ohio. Larry grew up in Tallmadge, where he attended Tallmadge schools and was an active member of the First Congregational Church of Tallmadge alongside his family. His love of photography sparked early, inspired by his father's and uncle's experiments in the craft. He began developing film in the family's basement darkroom and soon found himself working in local photo shops and capturing images at community events. His love of the outdoors - especially the water - was cultivated during summers spent at his grandparents' homes in Bemis Point, NY, and Cape Cod, MA. From the family sailboat to later adventures in canoes and kayaks, boating remained a lifelong joy. Larry pursued art and photography at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, the University of Akron, and Kent State University. Throughout those years, he supported his artistic growth by photographing events and businesses, working in camera shops, and serving as a guard at the Akron Art Museum. He also took part in the Stephen Ministry program at the United Church of Christ in Akron, reflecting his caring and compassionate spirit. In the late 1990s, Larry moved to Savannah, Georgia, where he quickly came to appreciate the milder climate. Under the name Savannah Photos, he photographed real estate projects and countless special occasions. A later move to Charleston expanded his creative world even further. There he became involved with Race Week and Fashion Week, deepened his interest in videography, and contributed to the 2016 project The Mayor: The Age of Riley with New South Pictures. He also found a meaningful community through the Jung Society - eventually serving on its board - and through his work with the Sophia Institute. Since 2020, Larry found joy and connection working with Tiger Lily Florist. Throughout his life, he made many cherished friends, each touched by his creativity, generosity, and gentle presence. A memorial for Larry will be held December 14, 2025 on Folly Beach at 11 AM at the Folly Beach Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve located at West Ashley Avenue. Guests are requested to bring a chair or blanket.