Edward “Lawrence” Williams, Sr., 77, of Tifton, GA, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2024 at home with his beloved wife, family, and dog at his side. Lawrence was born on April 21, 1947 in Blakely, GA. He was adopted by Marie and Emmett Williams, and he also had an adopted brother David.
Lawrence attended Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College where he met the love of his life, Barbara “Ann” (Rawlins) Williams, beloved wife of 58 years. He was an avid lover of the outdoors and known for his strong will, hard work, unwavering determination, and love and support of his family. Lawrence worked several jobs throughout his life but most notably many years as an independent sales representative for various agricultural equipment manufacturers through his own corporation, E.L. Williams Co.
He is survived by his wife Ann, son “Ed”ward Williams, daughter-in-law “Jess”ica Lazarchik, sister-in-law Norma Kay Davis, brother-in-law Henry Rawlins, and several loving nieces and nephews. Lawrence was also blessed to connect with his biological family including sister Carol (Bosco) Schumacher and husband Cal.
Lawrence was predeceased by his adoptive grandmother Beulah Smith, adoptive parents Marie and Emmet, stepfather A.D. Wilkerson, adopted brother David, his biological mother Opal (Mathis) Bosco, his biological brother Billy Bosco, his biological aunt Katherine (Mathis) Hall, and his biological uncle B.J. Mathis and wife Sue.
A special thank you to the Bosco Family for accepting Lawrence as a part of your family. We would also like to thank Randall and Logan his home health aides and Traditions Hospice.
Funeral services will be held Sunday, December 8th at 2:00pm at Ocilla Baptist Church, where Lawrence was a member, with the Rev. Robert Couey officiating. The internment will follow at Brushy Creek Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the services in the sanctuary of the church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Hydrocephalus Association.
Lawrence Williams, a consummate gentleman and example of love, integrity, and devotion, will forever reside in our hearts. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us. And as we grapple with the loss of his physical presence, we find solace in knowing that his spirit lives on through the many lives that he touched.
Paulk Funeral Home, Ocilla, is in charge of arrangements.