James Kenneth "Ken" Lawrence

James Kenneth "Ken" Lawrence obituary, Nashville, TN

James Kenneth "Ken" Lawrence

James Lawrence Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Woodbine Funeral Home - Hickory Chapel on Jan. 14, 2026.
James Kenneth "Ken" Lawrence, affectionately known as Kenny, passed away on January 11, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee, at the age of 83.

Born on May 11, 1942, in Decatur, Alabama, Ken was the son of Herman and Ava Nell Lawrence. He spent his formative years in Tennessee and graduated from Antioch High School before continuing his education at Middle Tennessee State University.

Ken proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1960 to 1966. Professionally, Ken built a distinguished career in manufacturing and production. He held the position of Vice President at Sherman Concrete Pipe, where he was respected for his leadership and expertise. He finished his career at Aladdin Industries.

Outside of work, Ken had a zest for life that was evident in his many hobbies and interests. His passion was fishing and boating. Ken enjoyed collecting firearms as well as attending auctions to find vintage and unique memorabilia and toys. He enjoyed Golf, Bowling, and flying as a licensed private pilot. Ken also loved the thrill of racing bass boats, go-carts and motorcycles - pursuits that reflected his adventurous spirit.

Ken is survived by his son, Jason Lawrence (Kathleen); sister, Dorothy Peacher; grandchildren, Lindley, Chappell, and Laura Kate. A special thanks to his nephew, Ron Peacher whose help and friendship was greatly appreciated by Ken.

He held close memories of his late son James "Jimmy" Lawrence; his parents Herman and Ava Nell Lawrence; his brother Michael "Mike" Lawrence; and Barbara Rodriquez, his beloved life partner.

Friendship was very important to Ken. Ken valued the many friendships developed through Bass Fishing Clubs, Poker Games, and Golf Groups. He took great pride in having two lifelong best friends, Vince Miller and Raymond Givens.

A Visitation will be held on January 16, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Woodbine Funeral Home - Hickory Chapel 5852 Nolensville Road, Nashville TN 37211. Graveside service with Military Honors to follow at 1:00 PM at Woodlawn Memorial Park 660 Thompson Lane Nashville, Tennessee 37204.

The family asks that if you would like to honor Ken's memory, please make a donation in his name to the Wounded Warrior Project or the Gary Sinise Foundation.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Woodbine Funeral Home - Hickory Chapel

5852 Nolensville Rd., Nashville, TN 37211

Make a Donation
in James Lawrence's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

How to support James's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor James Lawrence's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign James Lawrence's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?