Jim Lawrence

(From Hedge-Lewis-Simpson Funeral Home)

James "Jim" Lawrence age 82 of Carthage, Missouri passed away Thursday April 21, 2016 following a sudden illness.

Jim was born June 21, 1933 in Preston, Missouri to Chester and Elma (Myers) Lawrence.

Jim was a welder by trade and worked at EA Martin Machinery and Leggett and Platt, as well as for himself. He enjoyed doing small engine repair and helping keep many people's blades and chains sharp. Jim was a faithful member of Christ's Church of Perseverance. He enjoyed having a garden and loved being outside. He was always willing to teach young people how to weld as well as other skills he had.

He married Wanda Spry on June 4, 1966 and was only forty four days away from celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.

Jim is survived by his wife Wanda; two sons, George T. Clayton and wife Angela, Jim Lawrence and wife Jo; one brother, Milton Lawrence and wife Lucille; one sister, Letha Spry; seven grandchildren, nine great grandchildren plus two great grandchildren on the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Donnie Clayton, one daughter, Connie Clayton, one brother Richard Dick Lawrence, and one sister, Frances Williams.

Jim will be missed very much by his family and the numerous friends he had made over the years.