James Jefferson Lawrence, 91, of Panama City, passed away at home on December 10, 2011.
He was born in Luverne, Alabama and grew up in Andalusia, Alabama. He moved to Panama City in 1952 as an auto parts salesman with Taylor Auto Parts. He co-founded Coastal Auto Parts in 1961, later retiring from Tyndall Air Force Base Civil Service Supply Division in 1986. He then worked part-time with Wilson Funeral Home, Cooper Drugs and Hallmark Flowers for another 20 years.
He was a World War II Army Veteran serving 30 months in India from 1942-1946. He was a member of Palo Alto Church of Christ, Bay Lodge #337 as Past Master and the Westside Men's Club.
He was predeceased by his parents, L.P. and Minnie Lee Lawrence, brothers, Lenwood Lawrence (Clayetta), Leon Lawrence and son-in-law, Ogie Keneipp.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Mary Margaret Lawrence; his children, Mary Littleton (Bob Unger), Millie Keneipp and Jim Lawrence (Elisabeth Green). Also surviving are his grandchildren, Stephanie Jackson (Jim Walker), Lisa Homer (Jon) and Keri McMillan (Cameron), great grandchildren, Ethan Walker, Carsen and Brady McMillan and sister-in-law, Dorothy Lawrence.
Funeral services will be held at Wilson Funeral Home on Wednesday at 11 a.m. with Dr. Joe Keller and Dr. Jerry Harrison officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 10 -11 a.m., one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Graveside services will follow at Evergreen Memorial Gardens.
Donations may be made to Emerald Coast Hospice. The family extends special thanks to Tina and LaShaye.