Tommie Lawrence, Sr.

Deacon Tommie Lawrence, Sr

Highlights of His 106-year Journey

“Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.” (Deuteronomy 5:33)

Journey began: Tommie was born to Thad and Effie Lawrence on August 16, 1919, in Suffolk, Virginia. The fifth of six children, he was a 1941 graduate of East Suffolk High School and resided in Suffolk Virginia for his entire life.

Tommie married Florence Anderson in 1942 for more than 73 years. They were blessed with a son, Tommie Jr. The family grew to two grandchildren, six great grandchildren, and three great-great granddaughters. He cherished his family.

Tommie Lawrence was a proud World War II veteran, having served for 6 years in the United States Army. He worked for the U.S. Department of Navy at the Norfolk Naval Supply Center for over 39 years. On October 30, 2025, the United States Army paid special tribute to Tommie Lawrence for his military service to America and for advancing the universal hope and freedom and liberty for all. He received an “Honored Veteran Pin and Salute”.

He was also an avid reader of African America history. He had experienced some phases of it. In 2008 at the young age of 89, he volunteered to work the voting polls for Barack Obama’s presidential election, his first time working at the polls.

Deacon Lawrence was a faithful and dedicated member of Poplar Run Baptist Church. Attending Poplar Run on Sunday was a priority. He was ordained as Deacon Tommie Lawrence, Sr on July 16, 1954. Deacon Lawrence held multiple leadership roles for the church including Chairman of the Deacon Board, Church Treasurer, Sunday School Teacher and as a member of various organization and committees. He made many lifelong friends and had numerous memories of the congregation and church events. (Deacon Lawrence had a remarkable memory for someone 106 years old). His faith was the cornerstone of his life.

He received numerous plagues and letters of recognition from organizations, committees and his community for his dedication and service. At the age of 104, he was recognized on the Today Show as a Smuckers Centenarian.

Journey ended: Tommie Lawrence Sr. ended his journey on November 17,2025. God called his name and said, “Your time on earth is done. Come to me. I have one of the many rooms in God’s house reserved for you”. He replied, “I’m ready”, took God’s hand and went to his eternal home. Florence, with other family and friends, were waiting.

Tommie Lawrence, Sr. will be missed by his family: Tommie Jr and Delores: Grandchildren Semone and Julious Byrd and Daryll and Ti’keya Lawrence: six great grandchildren (Darein, Jordan, Daryll Jr., Jalen, Darius, Darkari) and three great-great granddaughters.

Although we cannot see or speak to you, we know you are and will be with us always. There are so many thoughts and memories of the times of love, the times we cried, the times we laughed. Your love of ice cream, bedtime snacks, landscaping & gardening, playing checkers, reading and singing hymns were good times. We will use these memories of you, your love, faith, and wisdom to inspire us in times of need. We know you would not want us to grieve too long. But we are going to take all the time we need because it will not be easy.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

A public viewing will be held 2:00-5:00pm, Friday, November 28, 2025 at Crocker Funeral Home, Inc. A celebration of life will be held 12pm Noon, Saturday, November 29, 2025 at Poplar Run Baptist Church. Mr. Lawrence will be laid to rest in the church cemetery. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home, Inc.