Larry Lamattina, 69, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2015, at his home on St. Simons Island, GA.
Larry, who was born on September 5, 1945 in Front Royal, VA and grew up on Staten Island, retired to St. Simons Island with his wife, Janice, in 2000, first as snowbirds and later – after making many close friends – fulltime. Most days (“I only play golf on days ending in Y!”), he could be found with his friends on the links at The King & Prince Golf Club or on one of the Sea Island courses. He loved a good party, a funny story, a glass of scotch, American history, and always, music. He enjoyed playing his guitars and was the “go to” guy when anyone needed a custom CD or playlist for an event. He tirelessly “volunteered” for various jobs at Janice’s numerous clubs and activities.
For someone who traveled so frequently for work, he was always ready for a new trip. Galapagos and Botswana with his family were highlights, but the U.S. cross country road trip with Janice (7 weeks and nearly 9,000 miles!) was high on his bucket list. More than the exotic destinations, his favorite times were the annual family ski vacation and the summer gathering on St. Simons.
He was immensely proud of his two daughters and the fine young women and mothers they had become and was quick to brag to friends about their latest accomplishments in acting or TV production. He strived to be a parent who was available and loving but not intrusive.
“Poppy” adored his six grandchildren, eagerly awaiting the next Skype opportunity. Every photo, video or text was cherished as he marveled at each accomplishment, be it student council, swimming, soccer, ballet, or dressing up as a fairy princess.
Larry’s early career began in his teens as a bass player with The Demotrons, who recorded on Scepter Records and played backup for many famous artists of the 1960s at venues throughout New York City, Long Island, and New Jersey, including the Apollo Theater.
He began his “real” career at the Benton & Bowles advertising agency, moving to Scali McCabe Sloves as manager of the media department. During his 10 years at Grey Advertising, he rose to Executive Vice President, Director of Media and TV Programming, and served on the agency’s policy committee. In 1981, he joined The Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc. as Executive Vice President of Media and TV Programming where his responsibilities grew to include research, direct marketing, sales promotion, and all other marketing services. Larry was later appointed Chief Operating Officer of Lintas New York and elected to the Board of Directors of Lintas Worldwide with global responsibility for media and TV programming and diversified marketing services.
In 1989, Larry left Lintas to create E.C. Television, specializing in television production and distribution for the international marketplace. As Chairman and CEO, he pioneered advertiser supported TV programming in Europe through the production and distribution of local versions of “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy.” ECTV acquired and merged with Fremantle International to become the leading producer and distributor of locally produced TV programs outside the U.S.
In 1994, when All American Communications, Inc. purchased Fremantle, he joined as President and CEO with responsibility for all domestic and international television activities.
Larry will be remembered for his laughter, his generous spirit, his positive attitude, his commitment to enjoying every day, and his ability to whistle through his back swing.
Larry was predeceased by his father, Rosario Lamattina; his mother, Rosa Lee Lamattina; and his sisters, Maryann and Kathy Lamattina.
He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Janice; his daughters and sons-in-law, Lisa Lamattina and Blake Henry of Princeton Junction, NJ and Laura Lamattina and Sam Vollen of Woodland Hills, CA; his six grandchildren, Dillon Henry, Lily Henry, Spencer Henry, Reed Henry, Ava Lamattina, and Annabelle Lamattina; and his sister and brother-in-law, Audrey and Al Bilotti of Avon, CT.
A celebration of Larry’s life will be held at the A. W. Jones Heritage Center, St. Simons Island, on Friday, April 10 from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.
Memorial donations may be sent to Hospice of the Golden Isles, 1692 Glynco Pkwy, Brunswick, GA 31525 or the St. Simons Land Trust, 1624 Frederica Rd. # 6, St Simons Island, GA 31522.
Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. www.edomillerandsons.com
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