Hilton Head Island Says Goodbye to a Local Legend: Monty Jett
It’s a bittersweet time here in Hilton Head Island, as we come to terms with the passing of our beloved Monty Jett. Known for his smooth voice and magnetic personality, Monty left us peacefully in his sleep due to a heart failure, closing the final chapter of a dazzling 36-year career on the radio. He passed away on October 24 at the age of 76, leaving a void in the hearts of many.
A Celebration of Life
Mark your calendars! A celebration of Monty’s life will take place on Friday, November 15, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Mary Ann Peeples Pavilion at the Coastal Discovery Museum. The event promises to be jam-packed with everything Monty loved—live music, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and of course, plenty of heartwarming stories about the man who gave so much to our community.
In a fitting tribute, Hilton Head’s Mayor, Alan Perry, has declared this day as “Monty Jett Day”! The event aims to raise a whopping $108,000 for local charities, showcasing Monty’s enduring legacy of generosity. Over his lifetime, he helped raise over $30 million for various causes, proving his commitment to making a difference.
A Lifelong Connection to Community
Monty was more than just a voice on the radio; he was a true member of the Hilton Head community. Born with a natural talent for connecting with people, Monty first picked up a microphone at age 15 in Denmark, South Carolina, dubbing himself “Monty Jett and the Jett Set.” He made his way to Hilton Head in 1988 when WIJY “Joy 108” came on air, blending a little Elvis with our island’s vibe.
Known for his charm and wit, Monty guided locals through everything from hurricanes to traffic jams, always keeping a light-hearted spirit. His popular weekday morning fishing segment with Fuzzy Davis was a listener favorite for 35 years. “Kids wouldn’t get out of the car until we answered the trivia question,” Fuzzy fondly recalled. Monty had that knack for making every listener feel seen and valued.
More Than Just a Radio Host
Monty was an integral part of our landscape, and his face was just as recognizable as his voice. From his role as grand marshal in Hilton Head’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade to being the life of countless local charity events, Monty’s spirit was always present. Just last March, he reveled in his new role, riding in a horse-drawn carriage, bringing smiles to faces everywhere.
Despite the shifts in the radio industry, Monty had a splendid ability to adapt while staying true to his roots. “Radio was supposed to die with the streaming services, but Monty not only survived—he thrived!” said Brad Tholen, a broadcasting partner for six years. Monty believed in the power of local connection and fostered a sense of community that is hard to find in today’s world.
A Timeless Voice
Those who had the pleasure of working with Monty often recall his “mellifluous, golden voice,” as described by his wife and broadcasting partner, Ginnie Lee Chalmers-Jett. That voice brought warmth and reassurance to locals, smoothing over all kinds of chaotic moments, like their famous MoonPie toss into St. Patrick’s Day crowds (which, believe it or not, was soon banned for safety reasons).
Legacy of Love and Laughter
Even in his absence, Monty’s love for this community lingers on. His dedication to giving local folks a voice through radio and community events has left an indelible mark. “He helped to give Hilton Head an identity,” remarked longtime friend and co-host Fuzzy Davis.
As we prepare to bid farewell to this local legend, we reminisce about the life he lived—full of joy, connection, and love. We encourage everyone to join us in celebrating Monty Jett’s incredible life and to honor the legacy that continues to inspire us all.
