Richard Lawrence

1938 - 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Rich Lawrence. A native of Sacramento, Rich was the son of Richard Lawrence and Elizabeth Lawrence. After graduating from Sacramento High School in 1956,he joined the US Army with childhood friends, Jim Sheldon and Bill Moffatt. He talked about his time in the Army jumping out of airplanes just recently and he was proud to have served. After being discharged from the Army, Rich immediately returned to Sacramento to court, and eventually marry the love of his life, Mary Emigh in 1961.

Rich was a trained electrician, working for Rex Moore until he joined his father-in-law, Colby Emigh, at Emigh Hardware in 1969. He worked tirelessly to build the family business, overseeing its move to the current location on El Camino Avenue. Rich had an eye for detail and a strong desire to provide the best service in town. It was not uncommon to see him on the sales floor or hear his voice on the PA calling for more cashiers to the front of the store.

Rich's leisure time was filled watching his favorite teams, the Kings, the Giants, but most importantly the 49ers. Rich's home was filled with 49er memorabilia and memories of family trips to the Super Bowl to support his beloved Niners. There is no doubt that Rich was one of the "Faithful".

Rich was predeceased by Mary in 2024. He is survived by his children Brian (Zephra) Lawrence and Stacey (Tom) Gazda of Albany, NY, grandchildren Emma Lawrence, Grace Lawrence, Lucy Lawrence, Katie Gazda, Danny Gazda, sisters Anne Lawrence, of Sacramento, and Jean (Joel) Salisbury of Santa Fe, NM. The family would like to thank Sherri Gordy and Ericka Robinson for their commitment and kindness during the last two and a half years.

A Celebration of Life will be held September 12 at 11:00 at Fremont Presbyterian Church, 5770 Carlson Dr. Sacramento.