Larry Guest, a beloved sports columnist, has died at 82, leaving a lasting impact on Orlando’s sports scene.

Orlando: Larry Guest, a legendary sports columnist for the Orlando Sentinel, passed away on Saturday at the age of 82. He was a key figure in transforming Orlando into a major sports city.
Guest was the Sentinel’s lead sports columnist from 1973 until his retirement in 2000. His writing wasn’t just about sports; it shaped the very culture of Central Florida sports.
Pat Williams, co-founder of the Orlando Magic, once said, “Larry Guest was the sports king of the city.” His columns were essential reading for many fans over the years.
Known for his sharp writing and strong opinions, Guest wrote thousands of columns and even published seven books. He was honored as Florida Sportswriter of the Year four times.
He started at the Sentinel just as the city was beginning to grow in sports prominence. Back then, the biggest events were the Tangerine Bowl and the Florida Citrus Open.
In those days before the internet, newspapers were the main source of sports news. Guest had a powerful platform and used it to inform and engage his readers.
Magic CEO Alex Martins praised Guest for being a strong voice in Florida sports, saying he held the industry accountable while educating fans.
Guest was known for building relationships with sports figures, from Bear Bryant to Arnold Palmer. He had a knack for getting the inside scoop.
Even though he was well-connected, he wasn’t afraid to speak his mind, which sometimes ruffled feathers. But that was part of his charm.
He believed in being honest and candid, saying, “Avoid being boring” was his main goal as a columnist.
Guest was instrumental in elevating Orlando’s sports profile. The Tangerine Bowl grew into the Citrus Bowl, and UCF’s football program blossomed during his time.
He passed away peacefully at home due to dementia. He leaves behind his wife, Mary, and several children and grandchildren.
Visitation will be held on January 17 at First Baptist Church of Winter Garden, with services to follow. Donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregiver Support Ministry in his memory.
David Whitley, a former columnist at the Sentinel, reflects on Guest’s significant contributions to sports journalism in Florida.