Lawrence, William Austin

William “Bill” Lawrence, of Floyd, Virginia, died peacefully at his home on Wednesday evening, July 13, 2022, surrounded by his family. He was born in Covel, West Virginia on August 20, 1930 to James Ernest and Rita Austin Lawrence, who proceeded him in death. Also preceding him in death were his siblings, Pauline Lawrence Hale, James Oliver Lawrence, and Frederick Lee Lawrence, along with his father- and mother-in-law Velvo and Elsie Spangler.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Doris Ann Spangler Lawrence; his children Steven Lawrence (C. W. Markham) of Floyd and Joan Daggett (Kevin) of Bridgewater; and his granddaughters Faith Daggett of Mt. Jackson, Katelyn Daggett of Swoope, and Emily Daggett of Bridgewater. He is also survived by a sister-in-law Kerri McCarthy Lawrence of New Oxford, Pennsylvania, several nieces and nephews, and his beloved cat Scooter and granddog Desi.

Bill retired from General Electric in Salem with 32 years of service. He joined the US Army in 1951, serving in Germany during the Korean Conflict. Bill was a member of Red Oak Grove Church of the Brethren for 50 years. During that time, he was a deacon, choir member, treasurer, and trustee. Bill was a quiet man, kind, compassionate, humble, and wise. He was happiest at home with his family and pets, whom he loved and cherished. He enjoyed farming, gardening, hunting, fishing, and working around his yard.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, July 23, 2022 at 10am at Jacksonville Cemetery in Floyd with the Rev. Dr. James Hubbard, the Rev. Kevin Daggett, and the Rev. Richard Thomas officiating. A reception will immediately follow the service at the home. Friends may also call at Gardner Funeral Home on Friday, July 22, 2022 from 8:30 am to 5 pm; the family will not be present.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Floyd County Rescue Squad, or to the Virlina District of the Church of the Brethren, 3402 Plantation Road, NE, Roanoke, VA 24012.

The family would like to express their sincere thanks to the Floyd County Rescue Squad, Carilion Clinic Hospice of New River Valley, Gerry and Sandra Shank, and our caregiver, Rose Saunders.