Barbara Jean Lawrie

Barbara Jean Lawrie, 83, of Sturgeon Bay, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, at Door County Medical Center in Sturgeon Bay.

Born on May 17, 1942, and raised in Sturgeon Bay, Barbara was the daughter of Harry and Helen Brann. Because her father was proudly serving as sheriff at the time, she was affectionately known as the "jail baby." Barb graduated from Sturgeon Bay High School in 1960 and always held a deep love for her hometown, even as life took her far beyond it.

On September 17, 1966, she married the love of her life, Thomas "Tim" Lawrie. They were married for over 50 years, sharing a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Tim's career as an Army officer led them on an extraordinary journey, proudly moving over 20 times during his service and traveling the world together. Barb was a master of the move; she could unpack a moving truck and have a three-course dinner on the table before the neighbors even knew she'd arrived. She was a terrific Army wife-steady, warm, and endlessly supportive-ensuring her family always felt settled no matter where life took them.

After returning home to Door County, Barb and Tim pursued a shared dream. In 2003, they brought their vision to life by opening Simon Creek Vineyard & Winery on their Jacksonport property. The winery became a local gathering place that reflected their love of community and hospitality and is known for its award-winning wines. Barb, the "Chief Hospitality Officer," made sure every guest felt at home-and she personally tasted the Chardonnay at the end of every day to ensure it met her high standards of quality.

Barb was a great entertainer who believed that most of life's problems could be solved with a long chat at the kitchen island while sipping a glass of wine. She was a gifted cook and baker, and she had a remarkable ability to make everyone around her feel special, appreciated, and-most importantly-well-fed.

Barbara is survived by her daughters, Heather (Jim) Smith and Meredyth (Lance) Nelson, both of Sturgeon Bay. She leaves behind her treasured grandchildren, Lance Thomas (Ali) Nelson of Waukee, Iowa, and Alexa Cate (Jake) Nelson of Iowa City, Iowa; step-grandchildren, Jess, Laura, and James (Ashley Lucchese) Smith; and her beloved step-great-grandson, Jonah Luchese Smith, who affectionately knew her as "GiGi." Additional survivors include her sister-in-law, Sandy Lawrie, and her cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Colonel (Ret.) Tim Lawrie; her sisters, Doris Price and Marian Williams; her brothers-in-law, Bill Price, Bill Williams, and Bill Lawrie; her parents, Harry and Helen Brann; her parents-in-law, John and Vera Lawrie; nephew, Jeff Price; and her step-granddaughter, Meghan Smith Hanson.

Visitation will be held at Huehns Funeral Home on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m., officiated by Chaplain John Hauser. She will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband, Colonel (Ret.) Tim Lawrie, at Arlington National Cemetery, honoring a lifetime of service, love, and devotion to country.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful staff at Door County Medical Center for the exceptional care provided to Barb. Doctor Hogan and the nursing staff truly became an extension of the family, with special thanks to Nurses Marie and Katie for their compassion and kindness during Barb's final hours.

In honor of Barb's appreciation for the dedicated professionals who serve our community, memorial contributions may be made in her name to support local scholarship funds that help health care workers continue their education and service -- Door County Medical Center Foundation, directed to Auxiliary Health Care Scholarship Program (P.O. Box 230, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235; www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=R3HVPQUECEZC2&source=url&ssrt=1767460714280.

Huehns Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay is assisting the Lawrie family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Barbara may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.HuehnsFuneralHome.com.