Sr. Lawrence

Arthur Jack Lawrence, Sr., a long-time Columbia, LA resident, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 4, 2013 at 92 years old, with family at Ollie Steel Burden Manor, Baton Rouge. Mr. Lawrence was born in Georgetown, LA on July 21, 1920. He was a loving father and grandfather. He was a World War II veteran. Mr. Lawrence was retired from People's Water Service in Columbia, Louisiana as well as the Louisiana State Highway Department. He was also known as Columbia's Plumber. He will be remembered as an avid fisherman, hunter, gardener and for his style of hats. He is survived by his children Joy Taylor and her husband, John of Baton Rouge, Judy Gamble and her husband, Irby of West Monroe; Sara Duncan and her husband, Ronnie of St. Gabriel, Jack Lawrence, Jr. (Jackie) and his wife, Janet of Monroe and John Lawrence and his wife, Pamela of Oakville, Ontario, his step-children, Tony Hatcher, Mary Peppers, his grandchildren Stuart, David, Johnny, Chris, Amy, Elizabeth, Eric, Kellie and Heather, his great-grandchildren Britney, Aubrey, Ainsley, Caroline, Lorelei, Madilyn , Macy, Posey, and Kitt. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Nellie and Oscar, his sisters, Beatrice Long, Lois Dodge and Juanita Jones and his brother, Julius, his first wife, Clarice and his second wife, Eva, and his daughter, Laurie June. Mr. Lawrence lived a full life filled with family and friends. He had a strong belief that "One is nearer God's heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth…" He was a member of the First Baptist Church, Columbia, Louisiana. The family wishes to thank the wonderful nursing staff and care-givers at Ollie Steele where he lived for the last three years. His grandchildren will serve as pallbearers. In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to Ollie Steele Burden Manor, 4250 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70809 or to a charity of your choice. The visitation will be held at Riser Funeral Home in Columbia on Saturday, January 5, from 5:00-8:00pm. The funeral will be held on Sunday, January 6, at Stark's Cemetery in Georgetown, LA at 3:00pm.