Gary Lester Lawrence

The very dearest of brother-in-laws. Always kind, wise and just all around a wonderful Christian man. I do, and will continue to miss him!

Gary was my supervisor with the U.S Department of Education, Office of Inspector General from 1987 to 1992 in Atlanta which was early in my government career. I ended up working for various agencies in the government over 36 years. Gary was by far the best supervisor I ever had.

I was green as grass (although I didn't think so) when I started working for Gary and he saw something in me and patiently mentored me. I remember he used to have a sign in his office that read "Old age and treachery will overcome youth and skill." Being young at the time, I didn´t like that sign. Gary used to say that I would become more "seasoned" over time. He was right. His wisdom was invaluable.

There are many times I think of the lessons he taught me. Throughout my career, I tried to emulate his mentorship and pass along lessons to those in my path.

Also, I always appreciated Gary´s faith and Heaven has gained another angel.

Gary was my supervisor with the Education Department OIG, for many years. I was in Atlanta for his farewell and retirement, and when I was heading back home to Tennessee I asked Gary to walk me to my car because I wanted to say good-bye privately. I told Gary that his retirement was a very sad day for me, and I began to cry. I think Gary was surprised, but I wanted him to know how much I cared for him. As I told my former co-worker Grant this week, for a fellow who was short in stature, Gary was a big, big man. Gary, in the words of one of my heroes, Woody Guthrie, "So long it's been good to know ya'!