Hilton Head Island Gathers to Celebrate the Life of Monty Jett
Hilton Head Island is in the midst of a heartfelt celebration as the community prepares to honor the life of Monty Jett, the friendly voice that echoed through the airwaves for 36 glorious years. Monty, who quietly passed away in his sleep at the age of 76 on October 24, left a legacy that resonates deeply with the island’s residents.
A Day to Remember
This Friday, November 15, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., the Mary Ann Peeples Pavilion at the Coastal Discovery Museum will transform into a vibrant celebration of Monty’s life. It’s the kind of event he would have loved—complete with live music, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and plenty of stories shared among friends and family. The goal? To raise an impressive $108,000 for local charities, reflecting the spirit of giving that Monty embodied throughout his life.
In a special tribute, Mayor Alan Perry has declared the day as Monty Jett Day on Hilton Head, reminding everyone of Monty’s incredible influence and dedication to his community.
A Life Well-Lived
Monty was thriving up until the very end. He was also broadcasting a popular Saturday morning show and recently cherished the arrival of two new grandbabies into his family. Just last March, he reveled in the joy of being the grand marshal for Hilton Head’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, parading through the streets in a beautiful horse-drawn carriage, a fitting spot for someone so loved.
For many, Monty was more than just a voice—they felt a personal connection with him. He spent years helping local charities raise an astounding $30 million, touching countless lives along the way. Starting at just 15 years old in Denmark, South Carolina, as “Monty Jett and the Jett Set,” he skyrocketed to local fame, becoming part of the storied landscape of Hilton Head’s radio history.
Connecting Through the Airwaves
Monty made his mark on Hilton Head’s radio scene when he joined WIJY “Joy 108” in 1988. His eclectic playlists were like a refreshing breeze in a room filled with oldies—bringing in a touch of Elvis into the mix, and guiding listeners through everything from hurricanes to leisurely beach music weekends with flair and charm. Monty had a knack for engaging listeners, and his famous trivia contest was a particular highlight. Fuzzy Davis, his fishing show co-host, recalled how kids wouldn’t even get out of the car until they heard the trivia answer, a testament to Monty’s ability to captivate his audience.
A Voice That Comforted
Monty’s warm, rich voice was a constant presence, calming and engaging. It was a voice that inspired trust and familiarity—a quality his wife and partner in broadcasting, Ginnie Lee Chalmers-Jett, lovingly described as “mellifluous” and “golden.” Monty always had a story to tell, whether it was sailing MoonPies into a lively St. Patrick’s Day crowd or adjusting to the rapidly changing landscape of the radio industry. He adapted and thrived while remaining true to himself, which is a rare quality that many admired.
A True Local Legend
Throughout his illustrious career, Monty moved around the dial, but his local roots and love for community ensured that listeners never forgot him. Brad Tholen, a fellow broadcaster, expressed how Monty embodied the heart of local radio. Monty’s belief that radio must remain local to survive is something many will remember as they reflect on his contributions to the Lowcountry.
As Hilton Head Island unites to celebrate Monty Jett, the heart of the community feels a little heavier but also immensely grateful for his lifelong presence. As his airwave fishing buddy, Fuzzy Davis put so perfectly, “He helped to give Hilton Head an identity.” Indeed, Monty Jett will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew him and those who felt they did through the magic of radio.
