SOUTH HADLEY – Lawrence H. Batley, 97, of South Hadley, was Called Safely Home on Monday, April 10, 2023. He passed into Eternal Life at Charlene Manor Nursing Home in Greenfield surrounded by the care and comfort of his loving family. He was born at home on Ludlow Road in South Hadley on November 16, 1925, a beloved son of the late Frank L. and Honorata (Klesseck) Batley. He was raised and educated in South Hadley where he was a lifelong resident. He served his country during the World War II in the United States Army and attained the rank of Corporal. He received the Purple Heart for wounds received in battle, the European African Middle Eastern Theater Campaign Ribbon, and the World War II Victory Medal. He was employed for over 34 years at the former Plastic Coating Company in South Hadley and retired as a Superintendant in 1980. He was a member of the VFW Post 3104 and the Council on Aging, both in South Hadley, and the Purple Heart Club at the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke. He was a communicant of Saint Patrick Church in South Hadley. Above all, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He leaves his beloved wife and best friend, Helen F. (Dawnorowicz) Batley. They were married at Mater Dolorosa Church in Holyoke on February 19, 1955 and were blessed with over 68 years of happiness together. He also leaves his loving and devoted daughter, Marianne Taylor and her husband, Stephen, of South Hadley; his son, Lawrence H. Batley, Jr. and his partner, Vivian McCabe, of New Orleans, LA; his cherished granddaughter, Amanda Lamontagne and her partner, Liz Strong; his cherished great granddaughter, Avara Lamontagne and her father, Anthony Lamontagne; and his many dear nephews, nieces, cousins, friends, and extended family members. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his two dear brothers and seven dear sisters. His funeral services and burial are private. There are no visiting hours. His funeral arrangements are entrusted to the St. Pierre-Phaneuf Fairview Chapels, (413-533-3307), 506 Britton Street, Chicopee, MA 01020. For more details and to leave his family condolence messages, please visit: www.stpierrephaneuf.com