James Elton Lawrence

James Elton Lawrence, 83, took his first breath among angels on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. He was born in Birmingham, Alabama, to John Ervin Lawrence and Margaret Clower.

James spent all his life in Terry, MS, and was a member of First Baptist Church of Terry. A hardworking man, he spent over thirty years of his life as an industrial mechanic and farmer and then worked for Home Depot after retirement. He was a patriot, serving in the United States Navy and fought for our country in Vietnam. He loved hunting and fishing, spending time with his family, cheering on the Atlanta Braves, and watching NASCAR.

He is preceded in death by his parents, John E. Lawrence, Margaret Clower Lawrence, and Frances Bennett Lawrence; his brother, Dr. John Lawrence; his sister and brother-in-law, Ruth Carol Sharpe (Roy); his foster brother, Frank Lawrence; and his nephew, Charlie Sharpe.

He is survived by his loving wife of fifty-eight years, Shirley W. Lawrence; his children, Dr. Paul Lawrence (Carla) and Cindy Evans (Brad); his grandchildren, Matthew Evans (Maggie), Nicole Lawrence, Jason Evans, and James Evans (Kayla); his great-grandchild, Cullen Evans, and sister-in-law, Jo Ann Lawrence.

There will be a visitation Thursday, September 25, from 5-8 pm and Friday, September 26, from 9 am until the hour of service at 10am with all services held at Chancellor Funeral Home in Byram. Following the funeral service there will be a graveside service at County Line Baptist Church Cemetery in Crystal Springs.