Larry Jefferson, a hero to bluegrass lovers in upstate South Carolina, passed away over the weekend in hospice case. He was 73 years of age.
A mandolinist and tenor singer, Larry was memorably a member of Charlie Moore and the Dixie Partners in the 1970s, along with Butch Robins and Moon Mullins. His high tenor voice accentuated Moore’s on classics like I’m Leaving Detroit and The Legend of the Rebel Soldier.
After Moore died in 1979, Larry continued to perform around South Carolina, often with his friend Al Osteen, and with a group called Northern Border. He would often be called to the stage to deliver what became his signature number, The Prisoner’s Song and he was a staple at area festivals and events.
Jefferson will be fondly remembered for his graciousness and willingness to assist young bluegrass musicians in learning their craft. He never lost his love for the music, nor the wonderful family of music friends he made around Anderson, SC where he was born and lived his life.
Here’s a perfectly appropriate version of Charlie and Larry singing Amazing Grace from 1972.
A memorial will be held on Wednesday, August 31, at 4:00 p.m. at the Sullivan-King Mortuary Chapel in Anderson. The family will greet visitors and friends after Wednesday’s service.
R.I.P., Larry Jefferson.
