Larry Geddie is already known as a hero to the community of McColl, but many residents say his actions deserve the respect of surrounding communities as well. Geddie was born and raised in the small Marlboro County town, and made it part of his life's mission, to ensure that its residents see a bright future. "It was time to give back," Geddie said. "I've been blessed all my life with wonderful parents and a beautiful wife and kids, and it was just time to give back." Geddie began giving back several years ago, but his efforts are continually growing. "I don't know of anyone else in this town who has done what he's done…and would ever do what he's done," said McColl resident Valerie Todd.
Over the years, Geddie has donated the land for a park on Main Street. In addition he helped purchase all of the playground equipment, and even built a tennis court and walking path. For all of the work he's done outdoors, Geddie has also focused on entertaining area children, indoors. He restored an old family theatre back to its full glory, and now shows free childrens' movies every Friday night. "It provides a safe place for them to come and see a movie, free, no charge. We don't sell popcorn or drinks, we're just trying to get them off the street for a couple of hours so they can see a good, wholesome family movie," Geddie said. "I haven't had a movie theatre in this town for years, and now we can come up and watch it for free…and it helps people like me and my husband, I mean we live on a fixed income, and movies are like $10 a head now, and when you can come and see a good movie, family movie, for the children…it's really a blessing," said Todd.
Geddie also renovated several nearby buildings, one of which he uses to hand out free sandwiches to hundreds of residents each month. In the winter, Geddie works with several local churches and organizations to hand out free winter coats and blankets. Though Geddie admits he's played a large role in the efforts, he said he could not have made such an impact, alone. "I think the grown-ups have understood what we're trying to do and all of them have cooperated and joined right in. It's a community effort," Geddie said. Geddie also donated a building for a local head start program. He and his wife use another building for puppet shows for the children, and also to rent out books and movies "on the honor system." Many McColl residents say Geddie has left a lasting legacy on the town, and they say it's one that inspires others, to do the same. "Everyone can make a difference," Geddie said. "Not everyone has the same talents and gifts, but everyone here has been able to contribute."
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