The man. The myth. The coach. The legend. Our Dad.

Larry Hendrix Monts Sr., born February 17, 1937, in Newberry, South Carolina, to Riley Hendrix Monts and Helen Monts, went on to glory on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

Larry was a proud and devoted father to Larry “Chip” Monts Jr. (wife Ame’), Michael Cary Monts (wife Tanya), and daughter Jennifer Hickman (husband Walter). He was an amazing G’pa to five wonderful grandchildren: Erin Harrison Swindler (husband Wyatt), Chandler Monts, Cody Monts, Dawson Monts, and Lauren Monts.

To countless others, he was a legend—but to us, he was simply Dad, and always a legend in our eyes.

Dad’s impact stretched far beyond his family. He was a legendary collegiate coach, a mentor, and an inspiration to generations of athletes, students, and friends. His influence touched more lives than can be counted. He earned more awards, trophies, and Hall of Fame honors than anyone could keep up with—but what mattered most to him was never the recognition. It was the people.

Anyone who spent time in our Dad’s gym knew it was more than a place to train—it was a place to learn about life. The walls were filled with words of inspiration and reminders of discipline, perseverance, and character. One of his favorite sayings, and the one that stays with us most, was:

“Life is not a destination; it’s a journey.”

Dad lived that belief every day. Through coaching, teaching, encouraging, and leading by example, he helped shape not only athletes—but better humans. His legacy lives on in every life he touched, every lesson he taught, and every person who carries forward the values he stood for.

A reunion of family, friends, and former athletes will be announced at a later date to bring everyone together to share stories, reconnect, and celebrate Dad’s life and legacy.

In lieu of flowers or condolence cards, Dad requested that donations be made in his honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.