J.W. Lawrence of Winfield, Missouri, the son of the late Armpstead and Reathie (McWaters) Lawrence was born on September 28, 1928, in Golden Pond, Kentucky, and passed from this life on April 28, 2023, in Winfield, Missouri, at the age of 94 years.

He has lived in Missouri since about the age of 10.   He loves tinkering and repairing things, gardening, loved being outdoors, spending time with friends and family, especially spoiling his grandchildren. He was of the Baptist Faith. J.W. volunteered with Meals On Wheels and drove a shuttle bus. He retired in 1991 after a career in machine working and the city of St. Louis.

He was married to Betty Jean (Breece) May 29, 1951,  in Piggott, Arkansas, and remained married until her passing in September 10, 2006.

J.W. is survived by one son, Doyle (Cheryn) Lawrence of Winfield, Missouri; two daughters, Donnah Jean Lawrence of Mesa, Arizona; Diane and fiancé  (Buddy) Lawrence of Warrenton, Missouri; four grandchildren, Carly (Jared) Miller of Eloy, Arizona; Holly (Lucas) Hirsh of Phoenix, Arizona; Jason (Angela) Lawrence of St. Louis, Missouri; and Nicole Lawrence of St. Louis, Missouri;  several nieces and nephews as well as a host of family and friends.

J.W. was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; three brothers, Mac, Mike and Deb Lawrence; five sisters, Ima Jean Smith, Christine Little, Earnistine Brooks, Alfreda Gibson and Juanita Swinger.

Visitation will be held Thursday, May 4, 2023, at the Watkins and Sons Funeral Chapel In Dexter, Missouri, from 11:00 A.M. until 12:30  P.M. with service to follow with Pastor Charlie Robertson of Bloomfield, Missouri, officiating.  

Interment will follow at the Bernie Cemetery in Bernie, Missouri with Watkins And Sons Funeral Service of Dexter in charge of arrangements.