David Ray Lawrence

David Ray Lawrence
February 18, 1944-May 20, 2023
David Ray Lawrence, 79, on May 20, 2023 after a long illness. The son of Ruth and Frank Lawrence, he was born in Hamburg, Iowa, but had moved to Coral Gables by 1948 where he lived until he left for college. David attended Coral Gables Elementary, Ponce de Leon Junior High, and graduated from Coral Gables Senior High (class of 1962). He earned his Bachelor's Degree from Florida State University, his mother's alma mater, and his Master's Degree from the University of Oklahoma.
David was a Science teacher and Coach his entire professional career. He touched the lives of many students and teachers as Science Department Chairman, AP/IB Chemistry teacher, Head Track Coach, and Varsity Football Coach at his Alma Matter, Coral Gables Senior High School (CGHS), retiring after 30 years in Miami-Dade County Public Schools. He then coached football and taught Chemistry at Gulliver Prep for 13 years, after which he retired again. He received many awards for his excellence in teaching, coaching, and professional organizations: he was one of five finalists for Dade County's Francisco Walker Teacher of the Year Award; he served as President of the Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) and received their highest honor, which is being inducted into their Hall of Fame; in 2007 Coral Gables Senior High School created the Legacy Awards for seniors, one of which is The David Lawrence Athletics and Community Award.
David loved the Lord and served as Chairman of the Board of Deacons at University Baptist Church and sponsored the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Coral Gables High.
David was an avid gardener and especially loved raising orchids. He also loved local history and was a member of the Miami Memorabilia Collectors Club. The City of Coral Gables gave him keys to the city for his career accomplishments, contributions to the community, and for his induction into the FACA Hall of Fame.
David was predeceased by his parents, Ruth and Frank Lawrence, and his brother, Frank Lawrence. David is survived by his loving wife, Mary Winton "Wynn" Brown Lawrence, whom he married at University Baptist Church almost 54 years ago; their son, Craig Lawrence (Evelyn), grandchildren Cody and Brandon Lawrence, and their daughter Melissa "Missy" Lawrence.
As David wished to be cremated, there will be a Celebration of Life Ceremony Saturday, June 17th at 11:00 a.m. with a reception to follow at University Baptist Church, 624 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33134.
Guests are also welcome to join HERE for the livestream of the ceremony.