James Mearold Lawrence

FLORENCE:
James "Jim" Lawrence, affectionately known as "Moose" and lovingly remembered as "The Happiest Man in Rutland," passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, March 30, 2025, in Florence, Vermont, surrounded by his wife and loving family. He was 69 years old.
Born to Donald H. Lawrence and Burneta E. (Brewster) Lawrence, Jim grew up in Rutland and graduated from Rutland High School in 1974. A proud Vermonter and lifelong public servant, Jim worked for many years as a respected union worker for the City of Rutland, known for his strong back, kind heart, and unwavering commitment to his community and coworkers. He showed up - every day - with quiet grit, deep loyalty, and a ready laugh that could warm an entire room.
To know Moose was to know joy. He lived for the simple things: fishing on Lake Bomoseen, hunting at deer camp with the boys, camping under the stars, ice fishing in the still cold, or telling stories around a crackling fire. He loved the outdoors and cherished his Vermont roots. He could fix just about anything - a car, a tangled fishing reel, or a broken heart - and always offered help before being asked. Jim found peace in the everyday moments that too often go unnoticed: the hum of a boat motor, the smell of woodsmoke or wood shop, a cold beer after a long day's work, or breakfast at the counter with family by his side.
More than anything, Jim's life was anchored by love of family.
For 42 years, he was devoted to his beloved wife, Sandra (Benoit) Lawrence, with whom he built a life of loyalty, humor, and unwavering support. He was a stepfather in name, but a father in every way - especially to Gary, Sheila, and Kevin, whom he raised, guided, and loved as his own.
His daughter, Sheila Merkle-Anagnos, carries his strength, steadiness, and belief in others in everything she does. His grandsons, Nick and Kyle Anagnos, saw him as a second father - a mentor, protector, and constant. From cheering at basketball games to teaching them how to drive, hunt, fish, and stand up for themselves, Poppy was always there, offering love without condition. The back table at The Rutland Restaurant, the boat on the lake, the driveway at dusk - these were the places where his wisdom, humor, and love were passed down in quiet, everyday ways.
Jim is survived by his wife, Sandra (Benoit) Lawrence of Florence; his daughter Sheila Merkle-Anagnos and her husband Geoffrey Merkle; grandchildren Nick and Kyle Anagnos, and Alison, Sarah, and Daniel Merkle; great grandchildren Thomas and Ryan Anagnos; his sisters Jane Frank (Tom), Nancy McClaren, and Donna Corsi (Joe) of Rutland, Mona Lawrence-Pailing of Fairbanks, Alaska; his stepmother Mary Ann Lawrence of Shrewsbury; and stepsister Shelly Springer of Paris, Kentucky and stepbrother Scott Springer of Shrewsbury. He also leaves behind many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews, and a wide circle of friends, neighbors, and extended family members who feel his absence deeply.
He was predeceased by his parents, Donald H. Lawrence and Burneta E. (Brewster) Lawrence; his beloved sons Gary and Kevin Pidgeon; his brother Stephen Lawrence; and stepbrothers Matthew and Monty Springer.
Jim Lawrence lived with humility, grit, and a full heart. He was a man of few words and deep wisdom - someone who made people feel seen, safe, and valued. He never needed the spotlight, but his presence lit up every room.
A celebration of his life will be announced in the coming days.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Samaritans, Inc. - a leading suicide prevention organization that Jim's grandson, Kyle Anagnos, is proudly running the 2025 Boston Marathon in support of, in memory of Jim's sons, Gary and Kevin Pidgeon. Jim believed in showing up for others - and this mission continues in his name.
Arrangements by Miller & Ketcham of Brandon.