Lawrence Hannigan

Lawrence “Larry” Hannigan, born January 29, 1940, in Philadelphia, PA, passed away on August 19, 2026, from complications following a severe stroke. He was 86 years old. The sudden passing of this wonderful man has left his loving family and precious friends with a tremendous void in their hearts and lives.

Larry was a man who lived a grateful life, marked by joy, laughter, kindness, and a unique ability to connect with others. The world has lost a light and laughter with his passing. Larry excelled at bringing people together, a quality that endeared him to many. He savored every day, loved life and often said he wished everyone could be as blessed as he had been.

After spending his early years in Philadelphia, time in the US Army, Larry built his career at the Government Printing Office in Washington, DC. During this time, he and his beloved wife, Elsie Hannigan, made their home in Olney, MD, where they lived for 27 years and raised their three girls, Sharon, Marsha, and Kim. The Hannigan house was always open to friends and was the gathering place for the traditional Christmas Eve party. The timeframe wasn’t for the weak, starting in the early evening and lasting until about 4am with Midnight Mass and pancakes in the mix.

Later in life, Larry and Elsie moved to Aiken, where he flourished as the unofficial ambassador for the community. He became a familiar and cherished presence, always eager to welcome a newcomer to the neighborhood. He and “his” Elsie treasured the dear friends they made in Cedar Creek. They enjoyed the card groups, socials, Hitchcock events and travel. All of the wonderful memories and laughter gave him so much ammunition for additional tales to add to his repertoire!

His enthusiasm for golf brought him great joy, providing him with exercise as a walking group member, camaraderie, and a lasting sense of adventure. His golf adventures include being the only person to survive a 60’ tree falling on his head. He was a mess and said his shoulder hurt, in recanting the incident, he said he “tried to run away from the tree but it followed him.”

Above all, Larry’s most important role was as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by Elsie, his adored wife of 60 years, and his daughters, Sharon Degnan (James “Bo”) of Apex, NC, and Marsha Torbett (Jeff) of Buford, GA. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Emily and Tommy Degnan, and his sister, Barbara Hannigan of Denver, CO along with a large clan of nieces and nephews along with their children and grandchildren. There just wasn’t enough time to do everything but he sure tried to fit it all in. Most importantly, everyone in his family always knew they were loved and treasured.

He was preceded in death by his youngest daughter Kimberly Blair (Brett), and siblings James Hannigan, Mary Jane Rapp, and Richard Hannigan.

The Funeral Liturgy will be held Thursday morning, September 10th at 10 o’clock at Shellhouse – Rivers Funeral Home.

Countless prayers are being said in sorrow and in much love. Memorial contributions may be directed to the ALS Association (als.org), via 1-888-949-2577 or via mail to: The ALS Association, 1919 University Ave W., Suite 175, St. Paul, MN 55104. See more information below.

SHELLHOUSE – RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC