Gilford----Helen Velita (Leonard) Lawrence, 93 of Gilford, passed away at her home surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, January 7, 2017.
Born in Ashland, New Hampshire on August 2, 1923, she was the daughter of the late Frederick and Eva (Heath) Leonard.
Helen was predeceased by the love of her life, Ernest "Junie" Lawrence, Jr. who passed in 2010. They will celebrate their 77th wedding anniversary together in heaven on January 13th.
Helen was a proud stay-at-home wife and mother, raising their five children. Helen was also a second mother, and grandmother to many children over the years. She was called "Mom" and "Gram" by the friends of all her children and grandchildren. Having "the kids" around was her greatest joy.
She was a proud member of the Gilford Community Church since 1946. She was delighted to have worked many years on the White Elephant and the famous Fried Dough booth at the church's annual Old Home Celebration, and the craft table at the Christmas Fair.
Helen is survived by her five children, Roger Lawrence and his wife, Barbara of Sweetwater, TX, Bradley Lawrence and his wife, Roxanne, of Belmont, Laurel Greenlaw and her husband, David, of Gilford, Sharon Cram, and her husband, Leon, of Belmont, and Wanda Carder and her husband, Carl, of Gilford. She was a devoted Grammie to her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchild, each holding a special place in her heart. She took great delight in attending recitals, plays, programs and games over the years-always cheering all the "kids" on. She is predeceased by two great-grandchildren, Cody Frizzell and Andrew (AJ) Frizzell.
Mrs. Lawrence is also survived by many nieces and nephews, all who thought the world of her. She is predeceased by three brothers, George Leonard, John Leonard and James Leonard and a sister, Thelma Jenot.
A memorial service will be held at the Gilford Community Church, 19 Potter Hill Rd. Gilford, on Wednesday, January 11, 2017 at 11:00am. The Rev. Michael C. Graham will officiate.
A Graveside service will be held on Sunday , May 21, 2017 at 1:00pm in Pine Grove Cemetery, Gilford NH.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH is assisting the family with the arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial please visit www.wilkinsonbeane.com.