Elwood Lester Lawrence ('Larry')
Larry was born in Jackson, Michigan on May 26, 1931 to the late Elwood L. and Doris R. Lawrence.
He attended local schools until age 14; then, transferred to Howe military school in Howe, Indiana, graduating in 1949. He attended Jackson Junior College until his induction into the U.S. Navy where he served for 4 years.
It was while stationed at Glynco NAS, that he met his future wife, Clarice Ray at a USO dance at the Oglethorpe Hotel. They were married April 18, 1954 at First Baptist Church in Brunswick where they continued to live and work until their retirement in 1990. Their son, Rick was born in 1956.
Larry began employment with Solvay Chemical Plant in 1956, later becoming Allied Chemical and then Linden Chemical. He retired after 32 years in 1988.
Larry was active in: First Baptist Church of Brunswick, Junior Chamber of Commerce, Ocean Lodge 214, a bridge club, camping club, square dance club and a leader in the Explorer Scouts.
In 1990, he and Clarice moved to Blairsville, GA to the retirement home they had begun building in 1975. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Blairsville and the C.R. Collins Sunday School Class, a member of Allegheny Lodge #114 and the Appalachian Shrine Club.
Larry enjoyed wood working and made several items of furniture for the family. He also loved to travel, was an avid reader and enjoyed cooking. For several years he enjoyed hiking, riding a four-wheeler and traveling with the R.V.
In 2013, he and Clarice moved back to Brunswick to be near their son and his family and moved their membership back to First Baptist Church of Brunswick. They continued returning to their mountain home in Blairsville for the summer months.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Elwood L. and Doris R. Lawrence. He is survived by: his loving wife of 63 years, Clarice Ray Lawrence, his son Richard K. Lawrence (Sheri), his brother William R. Lawrence (Ana), his grandchildren, Dawn L. Miller (Clint), Richard Ryan Lawrence, Wendi L. Williams (Noah), granddaughter-in-law, Sube Lawrence, seven great-grandchildren, Cameron O. Miller, Preston R. Lawrence, Max J. Lawrence, Brady L. Miller, Mason L. Williams, Sam J. Lawrence, and Alli L. Williams. He is also survived by several very special nieces and nephews.
He was a loving, devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and was known by his grandchildren as 'Papa'. His life revolved around his family and doing special things for them. He enjoyed life....one of his favorite sayings being, 'If I felt any better, I couldn't stand it'. He will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family would like to express it's deep appreciation to the wonderful staff of SGHS (especially 3 South), Dr. William Grubb and his Staff, and Heartland Hospice for their dedicated and loving care for Larry in his final weeks. Donations may be made in Larry's memory to Heartland Hospice, 664 Scranton Road, Unit 103, Brunswick, GA 31520.
Visitation
SEP 5. 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (ET)
Brunswick Memorial Park Funeral Home
4407 US Highway 17 North
Brunswick, GA 31525
[email protected]
https://www.brunswickmemorialpark.com
Funeral Service
SEP 5. 3:00 PM (ET)
Brunswick Memorial Park Funeral Home
4407 US Highway 17 North
Brunswick, GA 31525
[email protected]
https://www.brunswickmemorialpark.com