Jeremy John Latham

AIKEN, SC - With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jeremy John Latham, known to many as “Jay” who left us after a short, but courageous battle with cancer on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at the age of 50. Jeremy’s vibrant personality, quick wit, and boundless love for sports will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born in Coshocton, Ohio and raised in Warsaw, Ohio, Jeremy was the son of Patrick and Jeanne (Zalar) McKenzie. He graduated from Riverview High School in 1993 before attending Malone University (Canton, Ohio) where he played baseball. It was during his college years that an injury to his pitching shoulder led him to his true passion—golf. What began as rehabilitation soon blossomed into a lifelong love for the game.

After moving to Naples, Florida in 2007 to pursue his career in golf, he met his soulmate and partner for life at The Cottage on Ft. Myers Beach. Jeremy and his wife celebrated their 14th wedding anniversary just this past July 16th.

Throughout their ten years in Florida, Jeremy earned his Class A PGA status and worked at multiple golf clubs in Southwest Florida, perfecting his craft. In 2016, Jeremy followed his dream to Aiken, South Carolina, where he found a second home at Sage Valley Golf Club. He was proud to be part of the team at Sage Valley, and his dedication to his work and his colleagues was unmatched.

Jeremy’s passion for sports was evident in all areas of his life. He was a die-hard Ohio State fan—a fact known to anyone who crossed his path. Saturdays in the Fall found him proudly donning his OSU jersey, and engaging in friendly banter with opposing fans. His competitive spirit and infectious smile were matched only by his love for college football and golf. He had an extraordinary memory for stats and trivia, making him the go-to guy for any sports-related question. But it wasn’t just his sports knowledge that made him unforgettable—it was his warm heart and sharp humor that drew people to him. Always quick with a witty remark, Jeremy had a way of making those around him laugh, whether they wanted to or not.

Jeremy also had a deep love for animals. His fur babies—Opie, Cami, and Kylo—will miss his daily attention and affection. He also leaves behind the memories of his dearly departed fur angels, Peanut and Eva, who are surely waiting for him at the Rainbow Bridge.

Jeremy’s legacy will live on in the countless memories of the laughter he sparked, the friendships he nurtured, and the joy he found in every aspect of his life, from sports to work to family. His caring nature, bright smile, and “Buckeye pride” will never be forgotten.

Jeremy is survived by his loving wife, Mandi (Hockenberry) Latham, Aiken, SC; parents, Patrick and Jeanne (Zalar) McKenzie, Warsaw, OH; aunt, Joan Shriver, Coshocton, OH; Cousins, Scott and Molly Dunn, Nasport, Ohio, Dave and Erica Boose, Galena Ohio, and Gavin McKenzie, Arvada, Colorado. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, John and Vernetta Zalar, and Bill and Mert Adams; his uncles, John Zalar and Mike McKenzie; and his beloved fur babies.

A celebration of life will be at a date and time to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Jeremy’s honor. https://www.stjude.org

Rest easy, Jay. You’ll forever be in our hearts.

SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC 29801