Well-known local photographer Lawson Whitaker died this week after battling heart illness.
His work could be seen all over town, but in particular at the Chattanooga Market, where Executive Director Chris Thomas said in a text that Whitaker's landscape photographs stood out.
"I last saw Lawson as he was photographing at the (Head of the) Hooch in November," Thomas said. "He shared with me that he had been in the hospital and almost died due to heart issues. But he looked good, strong and healthy -- he said he felt good and was on a solid path of recovery/rehab. He was optimistic and energetic, happy.
"Lawson was a talented photographer, had been involved with the market for at least 15 years. He was respected by everyone, including his competitors -- he was the gold standard and always innovating. He absolutely adored his daughter, Grace, and he proudly spoke of her progress, journeys and accomplishments during every meeting, every conversation; our hearts are heavy, and our thoughts go out to her."
Whitaker also briefly was in the restaurant business after buying the Home Plate, a cafeteria-style place on Seventh Street. He operated it until 1987.
Friends and fans of his work took to social media after learning of his passing. Most noted both his talent and his love of the city.
"He was an icon of Chattanooga," Justin Strickland wrote on Facebook.
Keith Sanford, president and CEO of the Tennessee Aquarium, posted on social media a photograph of the city featuring the bridges with the aquarium.
"This Lawson Whitaker picture of the aquarium's 25th anniversary dinner on the Walnut Street Bridge hangs outside of my office," Sanford posted. "Lawson took it, showed it to me and then brought this huge copy which we immediately purchased. He took lots of shots of the aquarium, riverfront and downtown. I will miss his amazing and beautiful photography. He was an amazingly talented artist and a great guy who loved Chattanooga, and we will miss him."
Contact Barry Courter at bcourter@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6354.
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