Lawrence (Larry) Bennett McGee

Lawrence (Larry) Bennett McGee, 79, passed away Sunday night, June 5, while kayaking in the Bogue Sound water that he loved so much.

He was born in Winston-Salem on June 20, 1931 to Alan and Bennie Lee McGee. Larry graduated from R.J. Reynolds High School and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from North Carolina State University. He served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps, earning the rank of Captain. After his first assignment at NC State in the industrial extension service, he spent the bulk of his career promoting industrial development for the State of North Carolina. A true conservationist, he promoted the use of pelletized wood for fuel, using what had been a waste product to create energy. He retired after 30 years dedicated to the state he loved and served so well.

In retirement, Larry never slowed down, He was a lifelong member and leader of Highland United Methodist Church serving as chair of the board among many other volunteer activities. His intellect and gentle humor will be greatly missed by his Fellowship Class there. Always an athlete, he pursued racquetball and tennis, eventually rising to be ranked nationally in both sports in his age group. Larry was an avid environmentalist who was dedicated to protecting our natural resources through his involvement with the NC Coastal Federation and his constant stewardship of the Carolina coast.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Dorothy (Dot), loving sons, David and his wife, Alison, and Greg and his wife, Andi, and his big brother, Alan, and his wife, Nancy. He will be sorely missed by his three granddaughters, Alex, Mollie, and Kellie, his four step grandchildren and his step great grandson.

The grateful family wishes to thank the U.S. Coast Guard and the N.C. Marine Patrol for their assistance.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, June 14, at Highland United Methodist Church on Ridge Road in Raleigh at 2:00 p.m. with visitation and reception following.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in his name to the N.C. Coastal Federation, 3609 Highway 24 (Ocean), Newport, NC 28570 or Highland United Methodist Church, 1901 Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC 27607.

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