Geer Mourns the Loss of Band Leader

McGee will be remembered for leading the marching band, directing traffic, or addressing the crowds during Yellow Jacket games. 

The Greer legend died Thursday at age 72. 

McGee had been living at the Whitten Center, a care center for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities located in Clinton.

Since the early 1970s, Gee had been a fixture at Greer High School and the local churches in town.  

“Greer has lost a true legend with the passing of Lonnie "Gee" McGee," Greer High School said in a statement. "A beloved fixture in the community, Gee was a constant presence at Greer events, always ready with a wave and a smile for everyone who passed by. His passion for Greer High School was unmatched, and no one led the marching band quite like him. His spirit, warmth, and dedication to the town he loved will never be forgotten. Rest easy, Gee—your legacy will live on in the heart of Greer forever.” 

Two Greer city councilmen shared messages on McGee’s passing and how he impacted the town’s culture.  

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“Lonnie "Gee" McGee was a celebrity by his own right," Greer City Councilman Karuiam Booker said on Facebook. "Gee, who lived a life full of joy and laughter, brought a smile to anyone he met. Despite living a life full of what some saw as physical challenges, Gee was able to leave a mark on the lives of hundreds of thousands.”

Many in the city remembered him for leading the school’s marching band, directing traffic, or addressing the crowds during Yellow Jacket games. 

“No one loved Greer more than Gee. In turn, Greer deeply loved Gee - and it always will,” Greer City Councilman Mark Hopper said on Facebook.