Thomas H Lawrence Sr

Celebration of Life

Mr. Thomas H. Lawrence, Sr.

Mr. Thomas H. Lawrence, Sr. was born on December 7, 1941, in Augusta, Georgia to John, Sr. and Thelma Lawrence. Moving to Elyria, Ohio at an early age, Thomas received his education through the Elyria City Schools system. Shortly after, Thomas decided he wanted to serve his country, so he enlisted in the United States Army.

Following his Honorable Discharge from the Army in February 1969, Thomas was employed at the United States Steel Mill, in Lorain, Ohio, as a Stationary Engineer. After thirty-two years of hard work, Thomas was able to retire in February 2004.

On April 6, 1988, Brother Lawrence united in marriage with Sister Bonnie Lawrence, where their union blessed them with sons, a daughter and WONDERFUL grandchildren.

Brother Lawrence was a faithful member of Second Baptist Church, Elyria, where he worked with the Honey Sweet Coffee Hour Ministry, and continued to give support when needed. His most favorite and memorable moments were spending time with his family and his "mall buddies". He enjoyed fishing, camping, and playing "Call of Duty, Black Ops". He also enjoyed traveling on different cruise lines.

We find comfort in knowing that his legacy will live on through: The LESSONS he taught us…The LOVE he shared with us…And the MEMORIES we will cherish FOREVER!

On Monday, December 22, 2025, Thomas peacefully slipped into the Hands of God! Not MY will, but YOUR WILL be done! Tom maintained his kindness, grace, compassion, appreciation of the beauty of the love of family and friends, and he expressed gratitude for his long life, full of wonderful and varied experiences!

"I'M FREE"

Don't grieve for me for now I'm free.

I'm following the path God laid for me.

I took His hand when I heard Him call.

I turned my back, and left it all.

I could not stay another day.

To laugh, to love, to work or play.

Tasks left undone must stay that way.

I've found that peace at the close of day.

If my parting has left a void,

Then fill it with remembered joy.

A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss,

Ah yes, these things I too will miss.

Be not burdened with times of sorrow,

I wish for you the sunshine of tomorrow.

My life's been full, I've savored much,

Good friends, good times, my loved one's touch.

If my time seemed all too brief,

Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.

Lift up your heart, rejoice with me,

God wanted me now, He set me FREE!

A visitation will be held on Saturday January 3, 2026, at 10am with a Celebration of Life to begin at 11am located at Second Baptist Church 427 Chapman Ln Elyria, OH.

Funeral Arrangements Entrusted to

Carter Funeral Homes Inc.