Obituary of J. Larry Ogburn

Camden, SC J. Larry “Ted” Ogburn, 74, passed away on December 23, 2015 in Camden, South Carolina. Larry was the son of the late Fred Marshall and Nettie Smyrl Ogburn. He was married to his high school sweetheart, Serena Roberts Ogburn, for 52 years. They have a son, Andy Ogburn (Shane), and a daughter, Liz McGinnis (John), and two grandchildren, Thomas McGinnis and Caroline Ogburn. He is survived by brothers, Gary Ogburn (Nancy) and Onnie Ogburn and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Fred Ogburn and sister, Nettie Leese Brown. “Ted” was considered by many to be the father of scuba diving in SC. He followed his passion and founded Wateree Dive Center in the mid 70’s. He was a leader in his profession through both training and travel. This dream opened the doors for many who love the sport to experience the underwater around the globe. Some of his greatest accomplishments include diving the USS Monitor, Instructor of the Year for PADI, developing and implementing underwater search and rescue programs for SCDNR and other public safety agencies. He also worked for the Department of Defense and was a member of the elite Red Ryder 100M Club. He loved the great outdoors and his country. A memorial service will be held at Bethesda Presbyterian Church in Camden on Saturday, December 26 at 2:00 pm. The family will greet friends following the service at John Knox Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Walter M. Crowe Animal Shelter, 128 Black River Road, Camden or the Kershaw County Historical Society, 811 Fair Street, Camden, SC 29020. On-line condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals.com Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad Street, Sumter is in charge of the arrangements (803) 775-9386.