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.