Thomas Ruffin Lawrence

Thomas "Tommy" Ruffin Lawrence Jr., 81, of Beaufort, North Carolina, passed away at his home on Sunday, February 22, 2026.

A graveside service to honor Tommy's life will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, February 26th at Carteret Memorial Gardens. 

Tommy was born on December 11, 1944, in Carteret County, North Carolina, to the late Thomas Ruffin Lawrence Sr. and Ruby Gordon Smith Lawrence.

A hardworking man throughout his life, Tommy earned his living as a commercial fisherman, a trade that reflected his deep connection to the coastal waters he loved. In his younger years, he farmed on the family land, where he developed a strong work ethic and a lasting appreciation for the outdoors. Later in life, he served as Head Custodian at West Carteret High School, where he was known for his dedication, reliability, and quiet commitment to his work.

In his spare time, Tommy enjoyed fishing and clamming, always happiest near the water. He also got a kick out of scratch-off tickets and the simple fun of trying his luck.

Above all else, Tommy loved his family. He held a special place in his heart for his step-grandchildren and took great pride in helping raise them. To his family, he was dependable, strong, and always willing to lend a hand. His steady presence and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his life companion, Alexis L. Lawrence of Beaufort, NC; son, Thomas Ryan Lawrence (Britney Pittman) of Stacy, NC; stepdaughter, Billie Dawn Harvey of Newport, NC; brother, Gordon Gray Lawrence of Newport, NC; grandchildren, Garrison Lawrence and Syndey Lawrence both of Stacy, NC; and step-grandchildren, Kemmerlyn Lawrence of Greenville, NC, Devon Lawrence of Copperas Cove, TX, David Walker Wray Evans of Charlotte, NC, Demi Petznick of Newport, NC and Autumn Lawrence of Newport, NC.

In addition to his parents, Tommy was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Ann Lawrence and brother, Terry Cecil Lawrence; and stepdaughter, Claudia C. Harvey.

As an expression of sympathy, flowers are welcome.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.